The much-anticipated rematch between Liam Smith (33-3-1, 20 KOs) and Chris Eubank (32-3, 23 KOs) has faced another delay. Originally scheduled for June 17, the bout was postponed due to an injury Smith sustained during training. A new date was then set for July 1, but Smith’s continued struggle with a persisting “niggling injury” forced another rescheduling. As it stands, the July 1 date is off the table. Despite these setbacks, the scheduled card will proceed, featuring a female world title fight between the defending super-middleweight champion Franchin Crews-Dezurn (8-1, 2 KOs) and former WBO middleweight ruler Savannah Marshall (12-1, 10 KOs). Given the absence of the main event, the card will not be a pay-per-view offering on Sky Sports, which is favorable news for viewers.
The continual postponement is bound to have a significant impact on Eubank Jr., whose patience is likely stretched thin. The 33-year-old is eager to exact revenge on Smith after a defeat in their January matchup, which concluded in a fourth-round stoppage. Now, Eubank Jr. faces an uncertain wait, potentially extending into the summer or even later. The doubt surrounding the rematch, combined with Smith turning 35 in July, has raised questions about whether the “niggling injury” will fully heal and if the rematch will ever transpire.
Adding to the uncertainty, Eubank Jr. revealed that he previously declined a lucrative offer to fight Conor Benn, as he was laser-focused on avenging his loss to Smith. Now, Eubank Jr., who only had one fight last year and two the year before, may only be able to participate in two fights this year. Unfortunate circumstances, such as Benn’s well-publicized failed drug tests, led to the collapse of their fight, resulting in Eubank Jr.’s continued inactivity. Since December 2019, Eubank Jr. has only had four fights, one of which ended in defeat.
On the other hand, Smith, expressed his disappointment over the further delay of the rematch. However, he remains confident that, once fully recovered, he can defeat Eubank Jr. any time. The boxing community, both the fighters and fans alike, awaits the rescheduled date for this highly anticipated bout, which is expected to be announced next week.
Image Credit: Sky Sports