Conor Benn is considering a fight against boxing legend Manny Pacquiao if a rematch with Chris Eubank Jr. doesn’t materialize, revealing a candid assessment of his recent defeat as a "rookie mistake." The 28-year-old fighter, following a grueling 12-round battle at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last month, admitted he’s open to exploring various options, including a potential showdown with Pacquiao, who is set to return from retirement this summer to challenge Mario Barrios for the WBC welterweight title. Speaking to Sky Sports’ Craig Slater at the Miami GP, Benn stated, "The Eubank Jr. rematch is in demand. It’s very rare that you get fights of that magnitude and people want a rematch." He acknowledged the controversial nature of his loss, stating that the scorecards were wide open and could have gone either way.

Despite this, Benn remains determined to improve and secure a victory in future contests. He emphasized his ambition to refine his approach and capitalize on opportunities, highlighting his youth and potential as a rising force in the sport. Benn’s comments underscore his immediate focus on regaining momentum and solidifying his position within the boxing landscape. The fighter’s desire for a rematch against Eubank Jr. reflects a common ambition among boxers, driven by the pursuit of a decisive victory and the chance to prove himself against a formidable opponent. However, Benn's willingness to consider Pacquiao, a global icon and one of the greatest fighters of all time, adds another layer to his strategic outlook.

Recognizing Pacquiao’s advanced age—46 years old—Benn conceded that the veteran’s career is nearing its conclusion, while simultaneously acknowledging Pacquiao’s legendary status. This nuanced perspective suggests a pragmatic approach to his career, balancing ambition with a realistic assessment of his own trajectory. Benn’s reflections on the fight’s close nature and his own performance reveal a critical self-awareness, admitting he made a "rookie mistake" by failing to secure a finish. He highlighted instances where Eubank Jr. appeared to struggle, noting his opponent’s effective defensive tactics, including ducking and holding. Benn confessed that his intense emotional approach, aimed at inflicting damage, ultimately hindered his ability to execute his game plan effectively. He acknowledged that he had fully believed he would finish Eubank Jr. within four rounds, but the fight’s closeness led to a feeling of defeat. This candid admission demonstrates a willingness to confront his shortcomings and learn from his experiences.

Moving forward, Benn stated his intention to approach future contests with reduced emotion, prioritizing strategic execution over impulsive aggression. He recognized the importance of focusing on the technical aspects of the fight, rather than allowing personal feelings to cloud his judgment. Ultimately, Benn’s comments showcase a combination of ambition, self-awareness, and a strategic outlook, positioning him as a fighter determined to overcome his setbacks and achieve his full potential. The consideration of Pacquiao further emphasizes his openness to exploring high-profile opportunities, solidifying his position as a dynamic and evolving presence in the sport. He is at a different spectrum of his career now, with Pacquiao nearly done, he is just getting started. "It was so close and I’m disappointed in letting the fight be that close, because when I say something, I fully mean it. So when I said I was going to get him out in four rounds I fully believed I would. The fact that the fight was as close as it was, I felt like I had lost anyway."