Should A Eubank Vs. Benn Rematch Happen At A Higher Weight?

Ben Shalom wants a higher weight for any Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conor Benn rematch, but is that realistic?

Eubank handed Benn his first professional loss via a unanimous decision, and talks for a rematch have been ongoing. However, the fight was marred by controversy in the build-up due to safety concerns. Eubank was making 160 with a ten-pound rehydration clause. He failed to make 160, although he abided by the ten-pound rehydration.

Meanwhile, Benn moved up from 154 pounds when he was actually a 147-pound fighter. Chris Eubank Sr. was outspoken against the fight, saying he would not attend before reversing his decision. The bout was a thrilling display, but Eubank’s condition led many to feel that a rematch was not warranted. Shalom now wants a healthier weight. 

The Rematch

“The rehydration clause is probably less dangerous than the 160lbs limit now at this stage in his career. That’s where probably it’s the biggest challenge. As the organisers of the event, everyone has to be sensible as to how we approach the second fight. That probably was the one downer on the event, all the talk about the weight. And so I’m sure everyone will be sensible…I think that [increasing the weight limit] would alleviate a lot of people’s concerns about the fight,” Shalom said

If the rematch doesn’t happen, Benn is expected to return to the welterweight division, while Eubank will shift his focus to securing the Canelo fight. Canelo is set to face Terence Crawford in September, the second fight of his four-bout deal with the Saudis. With Saudi support reportedly behind a potential Canelo vs. Eubank matchup—and Canelo previously expressing his interest in fighting in the UK—Eubank sees this as the perfect opportunity. Shalom says Eubank must deliver a stronger showing to build his case for the fight.

“I’m under no illusion, he has to win in even better fashion to demand that Canelo fight. Genuinely, I think that Canelo fight happens early next year. Of course he can’t come in off the back of a loss to Conor Benn so it’s huge, it’s massive,” Shalom said 

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