Conor Benn might not get his rematch with Chris Eubank Jr later this year. The fight's fate hangs in the balance due to scheduling conflicts and uncertainty on Eubank's part.
The two fighters squared off in April, culminating a rivalry that had been brewing for over two years. Their build-up featured verbal sparring, failed doping tests, egg slaps, and fines from the British Boxing Board of Control. When they finally met in the ring, Eubank Jr emerged victorious with a unanimous points decision after an all-action battle.
Benn, fighting two divisions above his natural welterweight class, came out swinging with intent. However, Eubank's natural size advantage showed throughout the fight. Both men looked hurt at points, but there were no knockdowns.
A rematch clause was signed before the first fight, set at the same weight class. But now, the second bout is in doubt. Eubank Jr can't make the announced September date and might not fight at all this year. There's talk of pushing the fight to November, but no official word has come out yet.
Eddie Hearn, Benn's promoter, is exploring other options. He told YouTube:
"We've spoken to PBC about the Mario Barrios fight. That's a fight for the WBC world welterweight title. It could be a good opportunity for Conor's first world title fight."
Barrios recently held onto his WBC welterweight belt after a draw with Manny Pacquiao. He also retained his title in a draw against Abel Ramos. Despite these results, some in the boxing world aren't impressed. Former world champion Paulie Malignaggi didn't mince words:
"Mario Barrios sucks. He sucks, just a horrible, horrible champion. Might be the worst champion I've ever seen in my life."
Hearn says they'll make a decision within the next two weeks. For now, Benn's next move remains up in the air. Will he get his rematch with Eubank Jr, or will he pursue his first world title shot against Barrios? The boxing world waits with bated breath.
