Ben Shalom expects Chris Eubank Jr’s team to trigger the rematch clause against Liam Smith following his brutal fourth round stoppage defeat.
The domestic dust-up started off 2023’s UK boxing calendar off with a bang in the form of an uppercut – and then another – as Smith cracked the legendary chin that Eubank Jr inherited from his father.
As was known beforehand, the Brighton man had a rematch clause in the contract should he be defeated. Since he was, he now has the decision on whether or not to activate it.
Shalom, who promoted the Sky Sports broadcast fight, has said that he believes Eubank will call for the second fight.
“We’re hearing all indications that they are going to trigger. We know Chris really wants to fight again. His pride is hurt, he definitely wants a rematch from what I hear and ultimately Liam wants the biggest names and the big nights.”
“[Smith] wants Golovkin. It’s in Eubank’s hands and we can’t really look past that until the time has elapsed and we expect him to want to rematch.I can’t see a better option for Eubank Jr right now. We’ll expect it formally in writing from Wasserman.
Smith has been vocal about having the second fight on his terms, and sees an opportunity to live out a dream of fighting at Anfield stadium in his hometown of Liverpool. Shalom wants to make that happen.
“If we can make sure the event takes place near enough to the last game of the season which I think is on the weekend of [May] 21, then there is a possibility. If we were able to get Anfield it would be the end of May.”
In the aftermath of the fight there has been speculation that one of Smith’s elbows connecting to the head of Eubank contributed to the stoppage.
Whilst Smith has laughed this off, it has been reported that Eubank’s team (the fighter himself has not commented on it publicly) are considering an appeal to the Board.
Shalom, whilst believing it to be ridiculous, has heard that they will proceed.
“To be honest I think it’s ridiculous. I think this is more coming from his team. I think they are looking for excuses as to why it happened. Liam Smith’s combination, when you watch it back, was enough to knock anyone out.
To use the elbow excuse, I think everyone can perhaps see through that. I hear that they’re going to be taking it further with the British Boxing Board.
“From what I’m hearing I think they will make an appeal. And then it will be up to the Board. I can’t see it succeeding.”
With just two weeks left before the rematch clause expires, there will be more news soon on Smith-Eubank II.