Promoter Ben Shalom reveals revised date for Chris Eubank Jr’s rematch with Liam Smith
Chris Eubank Jr has been given a new date for his highly anticipated rematch against Liam Smith, according to promoter Ben Shalom.
Initially scheduled for July 1, the fight had to be postponed due to Smith’s injury. However, Smith has now fully recovered and is back to “100% fitness.”
Speculation has been swirling that Eubank might face Conor Benn next, but Shalom remains optimistic about the rematch with Smith.
“With Liam confirming his complete fitness, I expect the rematch to happen very soon,” Shalom expressed during an interview with 5 Live Boxing. “We have shared the new date with Wasserman, Eubank’s promoters, and hopefully, we can finalize the details next week.”
Eubank suffered his first stoppage defeat in his 35-fight career when he lost to Smith in their initial encounter back in January. Following discussions with Benn, Eubank exercised his rematch clause, and when Smith encountered his injury in May, talks were reportedly re-opened.
Meanwhile, two separate doping violations last year have led to a lengthy suspension for Benn. The UK Anti-Doping Agency (Ukad) and the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) are yet to reach a verdict on Benn’s case.
Shalom emphasized the importance of allowing Ukad to complete its process before discussing potential fights with other boxers. “Until Ukad concludes its investigation, I don’t believe it’s appropriate to discuss other fighters,” he stated.
Anthony Crolla, speaking on the 5 Live Boxing podcast, acknowledged that the Smith-Eubank rematch is the rightful bout to make. However, he acknowledged the allure of Eubank-Benn from a business perspective, despite the controversy surrounding Benn’s doping suspension.
“Chris Eubank Jr vs. Conor Benn makes more business sense. Controversy sells, although for the wrong reasons,” Crolla remarked. He also mentioned Eddie Hearn’s recent comments, suggesting that a deal had already been reached.
Shalom and Liam Smith’s statements, however, indicate that the rematch between Smith and Eubank is still on the cards. The contractual arrangements will ultimately determine the outcome.
