After winning gold at the British Karate Championships, a 10-year-old Harlem Eubank went with his mother to the shop, where they bumped into his famous uncle.
“Harlem’s just won a British title,” his mum, beaming with pride, told Chris Eubank Sr.
She expected a hug or at least a smile… But the former world champion didn’t miss a beat.
“I have 19 world title defences,” he replied flatly, before carrying on with his day.
“That was it, he was gone,” Harlem says now, laughing. “My mum was probably fuming but even at that age, I understood what he was trying to say. He was planting the seed that it’s never enough, there’s always more to do. Aim higher.”
It was vintage Eubank Sr – dismissive yet full of purpose.
It’s a lesson Harlem still carries with him today as he prepares for the biggest fight of his professional career.
The 31-year-old welterweight will face fellow Briton and former world-title challenger Jack Catterall at Manchester’s AO Arena on Saturday.
“It’s a massive statement fight. That’s why I pushed for it. I believe I’ll be a world champion and this is the fight that proves it,” Harlem adds.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Harlem reflects on the weight of his family name and how he carved out his own boxing journey the hard way, earning respect through the traditional route.