Chris Eubank Jr. has emerged as a leading candidate for Canelo Alvarez’s next bout in September, according to Salvador Rodriguez.
Eubank Jr., a former IBO super middleweight champion, is now reportedly favored to face Alvarez. If selected, Eubank Jr. will move up from the 160-lb division to take on the Mexican superstar Canelo.
WBA mandatory contender Edgar Berlanga and former two-division world champion Jermall Charlo were also in the running as potential opponents for Canelo. However, choosing Eubank Jr. could be a smart move for Alvarez. This decision might satisfy UK boxing fans and avoid major discontent from the U.S. audience compared to picking Berlanga or Charlo.
Watch Eubank Jr. vs. Smith 2 highlights: Watch
A fight with Eubank Jr. would serve as an excellent tune-up for Canelo as he prepares for a possible future bout against Terence Crawford. Berlanga, with his limited boxing skills, might not present a sufficient challenge, likely succumbing quickly once Canelo ramps up his attack. On the other hand, Charlo, who has struggled with issues outside the ring, poses a risk of potentially withdrawing from the fight, something Canelo can ill afford at this stage.
Eubank Jr. recently bounced back from a surprising fourth-round knockout loss to Liam Smith in January 2023 by defeating Smith in their rematch with a tenth-round knockout in September 2023. Eubank Jr. dominated the second fight, showcasing his resilience and ability to adjust, although some speculate that Smith's weight drain might have influenced the outcome. This victory has placed Eubank Jr. in a strong position, making him a credible and appealing opponent for Canelo.
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