Chris Eubank Jr still has unfinished business with Conor Benn, but he’s already eyeing the Canelo Alvarez vs Terence Crawford fight on September 14 in Las Vegas — a fight that could shape his future.
Eubank, the former IBO middleweight champion from Brighton, insists he wants the winner when the dust settles. But first, he returns to Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 15 for a rematch with Benn, determined to leave no debate this time.
Why Does Eubank Think 2026 Is His Year?
Speaking to Sky Sports, Eubank didn’t hold back about where he sees himself.
“It’s a big fight and it’s a fight that I’m looking at closely because after I dispatch Conor Benn for the second time, either one of those two men, Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford, I would love to share the ring with in 2026. I’m here to fight the big names.”
For Eubank, Canelo remains the sport’s biggest attraction. But if Crawford shocks the world, Eubank says the American instantly becomes the one to chase. Either way, he plans to be ringside in Las Vegas.
What’s Different in the Rematch With Benn?
The rivalry is personal, but Eubank insists fans won’t see the same version of him they did in April.
“We have a new game plan, we have a new set of skills that we’re going to employ,” he said. “The first fight lived up to expectations, now we get to go out there and do it again.”
He won their first fight by unanimous decision, but this time he says there will be no question marks. As for a trilogy? Only if Benn earns it.
“Any type of significant victory and I don’t see a third fight. But who knows? It could be another fight of the year contender.”
Is Eubank Really One Fight Away From the Elite?
Eubank’s confidence is never lacking. But if he only edges Benn, no one will be calling for him to face Canelo or Crawford. Those two are operating on another level.
Still, Eubank has a way of keeping himself relevant. He’s outspoken, he sells fights, and on the right night he can deliver. His inconsistency is the problem — from the high of beating James DeGale, to defeats against Billy Joe Saunders, George Groves, and Liam Smith.
If he dominates Benn in November, he can at least argue for a shot at the winner of Alvarez–Crawford. Anything less and the talk falls flat.
My Take: Dreaming Big or Living in Reality?
Canelo at super-middleweight is a nightmare for anyone. Crawford moving up is already historic. Eubank inserting himself into that conversation feels bold, maybe even unrealistic.
But ambition has always been part of Eubank’s brand. He’s built a career on keeping his name linked to the sport’s biggest moments. Whether that finally pays off in 2026 depends on one thing: how he handles Benn.
Last Updated on 09/05/2025
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