Brighton-based veteran middleweight, Chris Eubank Jr., is eager to alter public opinion following his defeat to Liam Smith earlier this year. His reputation took a hit after Smith bested him in a fourth-round stoppage at AO Arena in Manchester. Previously, Eubank had been dismissive of Smith, a known 154-pounder, and had expressed confidence about winning even without being at his best.
Eubank, in an interview with BBC 5 Live Boxing, voiced his determination to make amends in a rematch with Smith. “I can’t let this man walk through life saying that he beat me. I have to right that wrong. I have to even the score. I have to show the people that I am the better fighter,” he said. He rejected the suggestion that he was “out on his feet” when the fourth round against Smith was waived off, insisting that he was dominant in the first three rounds before he got caught.
The much-anticipated rematch has been postponed twice, with the second date of July 1 ruled out following a training injury suffered by Smith. BOXXER, who promote Smith, are now busy trying to reschedule the fight.
In the meantime, Eddie Hearn of Matchroom is trying to negotiate a new deal for a fight between Eubank and undefeated welterweight Conor Benn. Their previous bout in October was cancelled when Benn tested positive for a banned substance.
Image Credit: Sky Sports