Chris Eubank Jr. could be on the brink of securing a remarkable title shot against Canelo Alvarez. The British boxer, who hasn’t fought since his rematch victory over Liam Smith in September 2023, is now a promotional free agent and is reportedly in prime position to challenge Alvarez for his undisputed 168lbs title.

Eubank Jr. has long sought a world title shot, and while his planned bout with Terence Crawford fell through, new reports suggest he is now the leading contender to face Alvarez. According to ESPN reporter Salvador Rodriguez, negotiations are already underway, with Eubank Jr. emerging as the top option ahead of other potential challengers like Edgar Berlanga and Jermall Charlo.

Traditionally, Alvarez fights on Mexican Independence Day weekend, which falls on September 14. However, this year, the date may be pushed back to avoid clashing with a major UFC event at the new Las Vegas venue, The Sphere, targeted by Dana White for the same weekend.

Eubank Jr. has always aimed for a showdown with a top-tier contender like Alvarez. Despite previously falling short in securing such high-profile fights, this opportunity could propel his career to new heights if he manages to dethrone the Mexican champion.

Alvarez, the favorite in any matchup, is expected to defend his titles confidently. Nevertheless, Eubank Jr. is known for his rugged style and, if he is at his best, could deliver a compelling performance.

Since stopping Smith last year, Eubank Jr. has been relatively inactive, but this potential fight with Alvarez could reignite his career. Talks about Alvarez’s next fight have been quiet since his victory over Jaime Munguia on ‘Cinco De Mayo’ weekend. However, clarity is expected soon, with training camps likely to start before the end of the month.

Carl Froch has backed Alvarez to defeat UFC superstar Conor McGregor in a street fight, but now the focus shifts to Alvarez’s next boxing opponent. Eubank Jr., who has never held a world champion title, views this fight as a crucial step in his career before retirement.

His father, boxing legend Chris Eubank, has also highlighted the importance of this fight for his son’s legacy. Speaking to talkSPORT, he said, “Canelo is the only person he’s gonna be able to fight now to redeem any type of respect from the fighting public. Real fighters, real boxing people. Junior, this is what my view is – your saving grace is going to be Canelo.”



Eubank Sr. emphasized that his son is better suited for the 168lbs category and that a fight with Canelo is essential for earning respect in the boxing community. “You’re a 168lbs fighter, Canelo is your way to win respect and you cannot beat him, not Canelo. The only way you can beat him is if daddy is next to you. That’s it.”

Fans have been eager to see Alvarez face long-term rival David Benavidez, but that fight appears to be off the table for now. A potential showdown against Crawford in 2025 could be on the horizon if Alvarez defeats Eubank Jr., with Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh expressing interest in staging the contest.