The Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn rematch will not go ahead, raising questions over what is next.
Reports indicate that the Saudi partners, Sela, and The Ring are no longer interested in putting on the September 20 rematch. There had been doubts over the rematch, given the manner of the first fight. Eubank beat Benn via a unanimous decision, which drew many talking points. Eubank failed to make 160, as Chris Eubank Sr. was vocal about the dangers of the weight, as Benn was also moving up from 154, despite being a 147 fighter.
Eubank also had to abide by a ten-pound rehydration clause. It is believed that Eubank had reservations over the weight and rehydration for the rematch. Eubank is the A-side following his win in the first fight, meaning he has more leverage. At the same time, it makes a fight much more difficult for Benn, who was already boxing outside of his natural weight class.
Eubank will now aim to target a Canelo Alvarez fight in 2026. The Mexican defends his Undisputed Super Middleweight Title next against Terence Crawford on September 13. However, he has spoken about his desire to fight in the UK before he retires. Eubank Jr. will face competition from Hamzah Sheeraz to secure that fight following the Brit’s impressive KO against Edgar Berlanga in his last bout.
Benn will likely move down to 147. He has spoken about his desire to secure a title shot, with suggestions he may target the winner of Marios Barrios vs. Manny Pacquiao. But much more recently, Benn was on the Ariel Helwani show speaking to Shakur Stevenson. Benn urged Stevenson to face him at 147 if the Eubank rematch failed. The pair appeared to agree verbally. Since they are both with Matchroom, the fight could get made. Benn now must accept that he may not get the chance to avenge the loss, as fans had their say.
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