Liam Smith has confirmed that he will target a return to the ring in September, regardless of whether he faces Chris Eubank Jr.
The pair first faced each other on January 21st, 2023, as Smith secured a fourth-round TKO win. In the aftermath, Eubank Jr. exercised his right to a rematch, given the manner of his defeat.
There were questions surrounding Eubank Jr.’s performance, as he had been scheduled to face Conor Benn at 157 lbs, at a career-low weight.
However, Benn’s two-failed tests for Clomiphene meant Smith stepped in. Since the bout, there have been attempts for a Smith-Eubank Jr. rematch on two occasions: June 17th and July 1st, 2023.
But on both occasions, Smith had to withdraw due to injury. And during this time period, Eubank Jr. has been linked with Benn once again following reports of a date on September 23rd, 2023, at the Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi, being lined up.
And yet, Smith’s promoter Ben Shalom is confident that Smith will face Eubank Jr. in August or September.
And with so many conflicting possibilities, Smith wanted to make clear that he would be returning soon, whoever it may be.
“I’m looking for a date in September, hopefully I’m ready in September. Hopefully he sticks and fight me rather than Conor Benn. I said from day dot he wants to fight Conor Benn.
“It’s the easier fight for more money. I wouldn’t be surprised at all. If there’s a way, he can fight Conor with no restrictions and no backlash off any [Boxing] Board he’ll fight Conor Benn.
“I’ve got enough options. I’m in a good position. I can fight anyone. [Kell] Brook. Anybody,” Smith