NEWS: BOXXER CEO SAYS 'HURT PRIDE' WILL MAKE CHRIS EUBANK PURSUE LIAM SMITH REMATCH

By: Jay Calderon

‍‍‍In an early candidate for Upset of the Year, back in January, at the Manchester Arena, former Jr. Middleweight titlist Liam Smith stunned the boxing world by knocking out the usually iron-chinned, heavy betting favorite in Chris Eubank, Jr.

While some had him pulling off the upset, few predicted Smith would do so in such fashion. Eubank had never been down in 30 odd fights, let alone stopped as a professional. To see Smith, who isn't known for his power, stop Eubank inside of four frames certainly raised some eyebrows.

While Eubank had a rematch clause in the contract, it was unclear initially if he intended to enact the stipulation. However, considering the success of the first encounter, and how successful the return bout would seem to be, most expected a second battle would be staged.

Now, according to BOXXER CEO Ben Shalom, Eubank equally wants to stage the return due to desire to set the record straight.

"We're hearing all indications that [Team Eubank] are going to trigger (the rematch clause)" Shalom said to Sky Sports. "We know Chris really wants to fight again. His pride is hurt, he definitely wants a rematch from what I hear and ultimately Liam wants the biggest names and the big nights."

And it certainly would be a big night -- even bigger than the initial encounter. Shalom indicated that, if all goes according to plan, the return bout could be staged at Anfield stadium, home to Liverpool FC, Smith's hometown football club.

"If we can make sure the event takes place near enough to the last game of the season which I think is on the weekend of [May] 21, then there is a possibility," said Shalom.

It would certainly be an interesting rematch, especially in a massive stadium in Smith's back yard.

In some respects, it would shift much of the expectations onto Smith. While Eubank would still be in a do or die situation, the massive bipartisan crowd in favor of Liam would mean he could feel immense pressure on the night.

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