21st September 1991. I remember it being talked about by every Tom, **** and Harry in the build-up after the first fight, the country believing the press that Watson had been robbed the first time in front of 14mill on ITV, and wanting to see the ever-pompous Eubank bashed up once and for all. They got their wish in a way, but at a terrible cost.
I was there that night and afterwards went to Rudolphs the night club next door where I spoke to Eubank 's trainer. I recall suggesting James Cook as a viable opponent for the next big domestic. At the time we were unaware of the tragedy unfolding. Very sad
Both Eubank & Watson carried so much muscle in the ring that night and it was the last fight of same day weigh-ins.. and the pace/tempo of the fight was unbelievable, Eubank rallying with flurries and The Force tucking up and rallying back with short strong combo shots to the forehead of Eubank.. it seemed Chris gave up after six rounds because Watson just would not slow up or weaken, stopped trying to be slippery almost and so Michael then really took control and pummelled Chris until he finally succumb, falling to a knee at the end of the penultimaete.. and where he found that uppercut from is anyones guess, but WHAT A SHOT Had the Watson incident/accident not happened I don't think Eubank would ever of lost and may of challenged the top Yanks.. he had that knack of pulling a great shot out of nowhere -- Benn first fight the falling 4inch right hands when hurt, Stretch unreal left uppercut and later the leaping combo finish, Malinga oddly angled right hand to drop him, Close 4inch uppercut off the ropes first fight & late rally second fight, Collins first fight right hand drop shot right after Ronnie Davies slap (then posing instead of finishing), Calzaghe dying seconds out on his feet and big Thompson out on his feet 3-4x..! This was a great fight, a truly great fight with a truly great finish.. speed, strength, stamina, skill, drama and aftermath all in abundance
Christopher certainly did have that knack, didnt he atberry! And yes, it was a Great fight, possibly the greatest fight I've seen when you factor in how it had absolutely everything, including a massive upset based on in-ring happenings in the fight itself.
Remember watching this with my dad as a kid. What a fight, what a fighter Eubank is by far my most favourite fighter.