Chris Eubank Jr expresses desire to unify super-middleweight division
Two-time IBO titleholder also open to fighting for world middleweight honours
On February 23, Chris Eubank Jr (28-2) overcome the valiant effort of two-time world champion James DeGale (25-2-1) to claim the IBO world super-middleweight title for the second time.
Eubank Jr outworked DeGale throughout, sending the former British, European and World Champion to the canvas on multiple occasions as he recorded a unanimous decision victory – scored at 114-112, 115-112, 117-109 – at London’s O2 Arena.
Eubank Jr opened up about his victory and his plans going forward, the Brighton boxer said, “I did what I had to do to get the victory on the night and I am very happy with my performance.
“I have a new found respect for James DeGale after getting up from those shots I put him down with. I have knocked guys out cold with those shots so I have a lot of respect for DeGale.”
Eubank Jr outlined his plans going forward, “My next three fights will be with PBC and we have a great relationship with PBC so there will be some big things coming in the future.
“I want to unify the division, so anybody who has a belt I would like to fight. That is my immediate goal. I want to unify the Super Middleweight division, or fight for the World Middleweight title.”
IBO President Ed Levine witnessed the drama unfold at London’s O2 Arena on Saturday evening, and he gave his take on the night's proceedings.
Levine stated, “Eubank Jr vs DeGale was a great fight on paper, and it was a great victory for Eubank Jr on the night.
“Eubank Jr was made to work hard for the win against a great fighter in James DeGale. I have the utmost respect for both fighters as they are both warriors.”
Levine continued, discussing his hopes for Chris Eubank Jr going forward, “Eubank Jr is a great fighter and we are proud to have him as our Super Middleweight Champion.
“I am very much looking forward to seeing Chris defend his world title in some more entertaining fights and possibly even unification fights down the line. He is an all action fighter and those are the type of fighters boxing fans want to see as World Champion.”