Johnny Nelson has provided his analysis for the huge upcoming fight between Chris Eubank Jr and Liam Smith, and the former world champion is struggling to separate the pair.
Eubank and Smith will lock horns at the Manchester Arena on January 21st, in what will be Sky Sports‘ first pay per view offering of 2023.
Nelson told Boxing Social that he ever so slightly favours Smith in the contest, but admits Eubank’s stamina – as well as his mind games – could help topple the scales in his favour.
“I’d expect Liam Smith to win, because of his pedigree and his experience. But timing is everything, and the timing might be right for Eubank Jr.”
“Eubank’s got an amazing engine and he’s very good at getting under a fighter’s skin.”
“I’d lean towards Smith, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Eubank got the timing right and pulled it off.”
As with most Eubank fights, there has been plenty of back and forth between the two, with Jr claiming he will only need to be need to be at 50% to defeat the former world champion.
Smith, however, enjoyed a fruitful 2022 with wins stoppage wins over Jesse Vargas and Hassan Mwakinyo, and is likely to be ‘Next Gen’s toughest test since he lost out to George Groves back in 2018.
A one way rematch clause is in place, meaning fans could be in store for Smith vs Eubank 2 if the proud Liverpudlian gets his hand raised in just under a fortnight’s time.
The contest will take place at Eubank’s natural home of middleweight, with Smith stepping up from light middle for the first time in his 14 year professional career.