Chris Eubank Jr’s Win Sets Stage for Potential Showdown with Benn
In a decisive display of skill and power, Chris Eubank Jr (34-3, 24 KOs) defeated Kamil Szeremeta (25-3-2, 8 KOs) in the seventh round at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Fighting on the undercard of the much-anticipated light heavyweight title fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol, Eubank Jr delivered a performance that showcased his ability and set the stage for a possible grudge match with Nigel Benn.
Eubank Jr’s Dominance from the Start
Eubank Jr made his intentions clear from the opening bell, using his signature speed and power to dominate Szeremeta. Within moments of the first round, Eubank Jr found his range, landing a devastating right hand that sent Szeremeta crashing to the canvas. Although Szeremeta quickly recovered, he faced an uphill battle for the rest of the fight.
The second round saw Eubank Jr continue to dictate the pace, landing a combination of right and left uppercuts that left Szeremeta visibly frustrated. In the third, an accidental clash of heads caused a small cut over Eubank Jr’s eye, but the setback did little to slow him down. By the fourth and fifth rounds, Eubank Jr was comfortably in control, evading Szeremeta’s punches and repeatedly landing his own. Szeremeta, who had hinted at retirement prior to the fight, was left struggling to keep up.
Finishing in Style
The sixth round marked the beginning of the end for Szeremeta. Eubank Jr landed a punishing right to the body, followed by a brutal right to the head that sent the Polish fighter to the canvas for the second time. While Szeremeta managed to survive the round, the outcome was becoming increasingly clear.
In the seventh, Eubank Jr turned up the pressure, mixing up his shots and targeting both the body and the head. A perfectly executed right uppercut to the solar plexus left Szeremeta winded and down on the mat. Although he beat the count, another body shot quickly sent him back to the canvas. Despite his resilience, Szeremeta was in no condition to continue, prompting the referee to wave off the fight at 1:50 of the round.
Reflecting on his performance, Eubank Jr expressed his confidence and composure, saying, “I was having fun in there… I thought I could finish the fight in the first round. I’m looking forward to the big fight that’s coming up next.” It was clear that Eubank Jr had treated the bout as an opportunity to showcase his power while refining his skills.
Dramatic Challenge from Benn
Following Eubank Jr’s victory, the atmosphere in the arena turned electric as Nigel Benn entered the ring to confront his rival. The 28-year-old welterweight, who was seated ringside, had been vocal on social media, tweeting, “I promise you I will chin this idiot inside 3 rounds.” True to his word, he stormed into the ring after the fight, leading to a tense, WWE-style face-off as he and Eubank Jr exchanged words.
For fans, it was a tantalising glimpse of a potential all-British showdown. However, there are significant hurdles to overcome if this fight is to happen on home soil. Benn, who remains undefeated at 23-0 (14 KOs), is still seeking clearance from the British Boxing Board of Control. His licence was stripped following a failed drugs test two years ago, which ultimately derailed his previous clash with Eubank Jr.
Looking Ahead to a Potential Clash
If Benn can resolve his licensing issues, a fight between these two could be one of the most eagerly anticipated domestic bouts in recent memory. Both fighters carry impressive records and contrasting styles: Eubank Jr, with his aggressive, power-based approach, and Benn, known for his speed and counter-punching. For Eubank Jr, a match-up with Benn represents more than just a bout; it’s a chance to solidify his place among Britain’s top middleweights and perhaps settle a personal score in the process.
Eubank Jr’s performance against Szeremeta reaffirmed his place as a top contender in the middleweight division. He continues to show an appetite for competition and a clear ambition to secure high-profile fights. With Benn’s challenge now public and intense, boxing fans are left hoping the regulatory issues can be resolved, and this intriguing bout can finally be realised.
