Chris Eubank’s character outside of the ring often did not match his fighting style. The poetic speaker was often able to deliver devastating performances to top opponents.
Earning 23 knockouts throughout his career, ‘Simply the Best’ was able to produce some impressive finishes in his career. This includes a stoppage victory against ‘The Dark Destroyer’, before drawing with Benn in a controversial rematch.
However, to set up the first title shot of his career against Benn, Eubank would have an impressive performance.
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Chris Eubank knocked out Reginaldo dos Santos in 20 seconds
After defeating Kid Milo in September 1990, Eubank would return to the ring just two weeks later. Taking on Reginaldo dos Santos, Eubank was looking to extend his unbeaten record to 24-0.
Meeting the Brazilian in the Royal Albert Hall in London, dos Santos had a record of 11-4.
A 24-year-old Eubank would not be concerned about getting any more minutes in the ring than he needed. ‘Simply the Best’ wouldn’t even need half a minute to get the job done.
A huge overhand right from the British fighter would find the chin of dos Santos. Immediately, the Brazilian was sprawled on the canvas, unable to return to action.
Eubank struck a pose as his opponent was down on the floor, and he was announced the winner shortly later.
Given the fact that Eubank did not absorb any strikes or overly push himself in the fight, he was able to return just two months later. Facing future rival Benn for the first time, he would dethrone the champion to claim the WBO World Middleweight title.
It was just the second loss of ‘The Dark Destroyer’s’ career, as Benn was coming off a win over Iran Barkley.
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Chris Eubank went undefeated for the first 10 years of his career
Although many top fighters will go on lengthy winning streaks to begin their careers, few of them last as long as Eubank’s. Making his debut in 1985, Eubank would not taste defeat for 10 years of fighting.
This period would see him claim and defend world titles in multiple weight divisions, as well as earn wins over Benn, Michael Watson, and other top opponents.
Eubank’s first loss came against Steve Collins. Fighting in Cork, Ireland, a unanimous decision win for the Irish fighter would see him dethrone the British legend.
Eubank’s record at the time of the loss was 41-0-2, as he would stumble for the first time after 43 fights.