ABOUT THIS EPISODE
The rivalry between boxers Nigel Benn and Chris Eubank during the 1990s was among the most ferocious in sport. It’s now being carried on by their sons, Conor and Chris Jr, whose first meeting was one of the most acclaimed fights of the year so far. As they prepare to face off again at the Tottenham Hotspur stadium on Saturday, the family dynamics of both fighters have been in the spotlight. Before the first contest, Chris Eubank Jr’s often strained relationship with his famous father was tested, before they dramatically reunited on the night of the fight. A new documentary explores their story.
Ed Harry and Ade Adedoyin discuss why family ties seem particularly strong in boxing, where many great champions have been followed into the ring by their sons and daughters.
They also speak to a man from a different kind of sporting dynasty: Ian Brightwell, a former Premier League footballer who made more than 300 appearances for Manchester City during the 1980s and 90s. He’s the son of the sprinter Ann Packer, who won gold in the 800m at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, breaking the world record in the process; his father, Robbie, also won relay silver at that Games. He reflects on growing up as the son of elite athletes, and the approach his parents took when he and his brother David started on their own sporting careers. What’s the best way to support your children when they follow the path you once took – or choose to go their own way?
More than the Score is the BBC World Service's daily podcast exploring stories from all over the world of sport. Every Monday to Friday, we're telling stories beyond the scoreline, from tennis to football, boxing to bobsleigh, and rugby league to the NFL. We've got interviews with extraordinary athletes like pole vault titan Mondo Duplantis, boxing royalty Cecilia Braekhus and tennis legend Boris Becker, as well as the experts working behind the scenes, from top football scouts to physios who keep NBA stars in peak condition. Plus, we've got the expertise of the BBC's top journalists, who share their insights from decades of covering sport at all levels.
And if you've got your own take on the stories we cover, we'd love to hear from you. Email morethanthescore@bbc.co.uk, or WhatsApp us on 0044 800 032 0470. You can find more information, along with our privacy notice, on our website: www.bbcworldservice.com/morethanthescore
