‘Conventional Wisdom Said I Was Washed-Up’ – Chris Eubank Jr
Count me among the skeptics who had their doubts about Chris Eubank Jr. going into his rematch with Liam Smith. Many wondered if he still had the hunger for the sport, or if his best years were now behind him. These concerns were not unwarranted, especially after his lackluster performance in the original bout against Smith.
But this past Saturday night, during the rematch, Eubank Jr. made us all eat our words.
In many respects, it could be said this was the highlight reel of Eubank’s career thus far. He had been dismissed by fans and experts alike, particularly given how he faltered the first time against Smith. While Smith is certainly no pushover, Eubank had previously gone toe-to-toe with fighters who had more impressive resumes, making it even more puzzling why he lost the first fight.
However, what Eubank accomplished during the rematch is something to behold, especially considering the numerous questions surrounding his career at this point. This was unequivocally his most meaningful win.
His determination and tenacity were on full display. Such confidence and belief are the sort of things you want to see in a fighter, especially when the world has all but counted them out. The gutsy showing demonstrated that Eubank still has the ticker for it.
In our sparring sessions years ago, he always struck me as a powerhouse, and this weekend was pretty much what I had originally envisioned for their first fight. It’s as if someone reset the universe because the way he was dismantled in their first bout just didn’t add up.
The public had started to think maybe Eubank had aged out. You know the drill: fighters lose their touch, and the sport overtakes them. But perhaps that loss was the wakeup call he needed to buckle down, refocus, and execute a winning strategy.
On fight night, his demeanor was different. There were no theatrics or grandstanding. The man was zeroed in. His fight strategy was also on point—controlling Smith with a consistent jab, effectively mixing it up to both the head and body. Smith, sluggish from the get-go, could never quite catch up or mount any significant offense.
Teaming up with Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre was an ace move for Eubank and it showed. I was at ringside and could hear McIntyre instructing him to “go back to the jab,” and lo and behold, Eubank obeyed, because hey, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
In the fourth round, Eubank uncorked a devastating uppercut, sending Smith tumbling down, and it was apparent that for the first time in their two-fight saga, it was like watching a premier middleweight batter a far less imposing opponent. Smith just couldn’t keep it together after that.
This victory leaves us pondering Eubank’s next move. A trilogy fight with Smith? Given they’re now 1-1, it’s a possibility. But I suspect Eubank will have his eyes on bigger prizes and more lucrative bouts.
Smith himself has conceded defeat with no excuses, which makes me believe that Eubank might consider the Smith chapter closed, given how dominant his victory was. It wouldn’t be out of line; when you’re the higher-profile fighter and you bounce back from a loss to win decisively, it’s fair to look for new challenges.
And speaking of new challenges, Eubank took to the ring’s microphone to call out Gennady Golovkin, a former unified champion who’s currently without a belt. It’s an intriguing match-up, but one that would require some homework to predict the victor, especially considering Golovkin’s recent form.
Eubank, who’s often been a divisive figure, may have just turned a corner in terms of public perception with this win. The industry insiders and fans alike owe it to him to give credit where it’s due. Although he entered a hostile environment filled with Smith supporters, he executed his plan flawlessly and won many of them over by the end of the night.
This win should elevate his standing in the British sporting landscape, and if he keeps up performances like this, who knows how far he can go. So, to answer the lingering question—can Chris Eubank Jr. become a world champion? Under the right conditions, I’d say he’s got a real shot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Chris Eubank Jr. comeback
Who is the article mainly about?
The article is primarily focused on Chris Eubank Jr. and his comeback victory in a rematch against Liam Smith.
What was significant about Chris Eubank Jr.’s win over Liam Smith?
The win was significant because it revitalized Eubank’s career, defying critics who thought his best days were behind him. It was also seen as his most meaningful win, especially considering the context and how he was written off after losing the first bout against Smith.
What was the gameplan that led to Eubank’s win?
Eubank Jr.’s game plan involved a disciplined approach. He controlled Smith with a persistent jab, targeted both head and body, and followed the corner’s instructions rigorously. This strategy disrupted Smith’s tempo and prevented him from mounting any significant offense.
Who is Gennady Golovkin in the context of this article?
Gennady Golovkin is a former unified champion who currently doesn’t hold a title. Eubank Jr. called him out after his win, suggesting a future match-up that could be significant for both fighters.
What’s the general public opinion of Chris Eubank Jr.?
The article suggests that Eubank Jr. has been a divisive figure but his recent win may have improved his standing in the eyes of both the industry and the public. His flawless execution in a hostile environment won him considerable respect.
Is there talk of a trilogy fight between Eubank Jr. and Liam Smith?
While a trilogy fight is a possibility given the 1-1 record between the two, the article speculates that Eubank may be more interested in seeking higher-profile and more lucrative fights, possibly closing the chapter on his rivalry with Smith.
What role did Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre play in the match?
Brian ‘BoMac’ McIntyre was Eubank Jr.’s corner man and played a crucial role in his victory. His instructions and disciplined approach clearly helped Eubank execute a winning game plan against Smith.
Is Chris Eubank Jr. on a path to a world title?
The article concludes that given the right circumstances, Chris Eubank Jr. has a legitimate chance at winning a world title in the future. His recent performance against Smith demonstrates that he still has what it takes to compete at a high level.
More about Chris Eubank Jr. comeback
- Chris Eubank Jr.’s Official Profile
- Liam Smith Career Highlights
- Gennady Golovkin: A Look at a Former Unified Champion
- Boxing Strategies: The Importance of the Jab
- Public Perception in Boxing: A Case Study on Chris Eubank Jr.
- Inside the Corner: The Role of a Boxing Coach
- What Makes a World Champion: Boxing’s Ultimate Prize
- Past and Future: Notable Boxing Trilogies
- Upcoming High-Profile Boxing Matches
8 comments
Fighters get old, they said. Eubank’s done, they said. Well, look who’s laughing now. good on him for showing what experience and a solid corner can do.
Can we talk about how good the strategy was? Like seriously, Eubank was like a chess master in the ring. Would love to see a breakdown of each round.
Umm, anyone else think that maybe Smith just had an off night? I mean sure, Eubank looked good but let’s not get carried away. World title? Still got a ways to go, buddy.
Trilogy fight or not, I wanna see Eubank vs Golovkin. Now that’s a fight that would sell tickets! Make it happen promoters.
Smith wasn’t with it, was he? looked like he was somewhere else. Takes two to tango, and he just wasn’t in the dance mood I guess.
Wow, never thought I’d see the day Eubank Jr. bounce back like this. Guy was pretty much a write-off after that first Smith fight. Props where props are due!
Odd comment maybe, but Eubank’s ring walk was like a scene from a movie. No theatrics, all business. Could feel the tension through the screen.
Solid article! Loved the analysis on the game plan. Controlling with the jab, who would’ve thought it was that simple but effective. Eubank’s really listened to BoMac, huh.