Chris Eubank Jr. has been named the #1 contender for the WBO middleweight title held by Janibek Alimkhanuly, following his tenth-round knockout win over Liam Smith on September 2nd in Manchester, England. However, the move by the World Boxing Organization (WBO) raises questions about Eubank Jr.’s real ambitions in the sport. Despite the top ranking, it’s widely believed that Eubank Jr. is more interested in high-profile, money-making fights rather than facing top-level opposition for world titles.
The 34-year-old has had a career that can best be described as inconsistent when it comes to chasing world titles. He has fought for a world title only once, losing to George Groves in 2018 for the WBA super middleweight belt. Since then, Eubank Jr. has been selective in his opposition, facing fighters like Liam Smith, Liam Williams, and James DeGale, who was at the end of his career. This has led to speculation that once offered a title shot, Eubank Jr. will decline, leading the WBO to lower his ranking.
The next highest-ranked contender in the WBO middleweight division is Meirim Nursultanov, who many believe is a more deserving and capable fighter than Eubank Jr. If Eubank Jr. does decline a title shot, it's likely that Nursultanov will be next in line. The WBO champion, Janibek Alimkhanuly, is set to face IBF champ Vincenzo Gualtieri on October 14th, and the winner would be a formidable opponent for either Eubank Jr. or Nursultanov.
Rumors are swirling that Eubank Jr. is eyeing a fight with British welterweight Conor Benn, to be sold on DAZN PPV, and possibly a bout with the retired Kell Brook. These fights, while potentially lucrative, do little to prove his mettle as a top middleweight. As it stands, Eubank Jr.’s ranking may be high, but his willingness to prove himself against the best remains in question.
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