The domestic dust up between Chris Eubank Jr and Liam Smith will be Sky Sports’ first box office event of 2023.
Following an eventful end to the year for Eubank Jr (32-2) which involved everything except a fight, he returns to action against Liverpool’s Smith, who boxed twice in 2022 – the two victories taking his record to 32 wins, three losses and one draw.
The event takes place on January 21 in Manchester, and will be available to view on Sky Sports at a price point of £19.95.
Promoter Ben Shalom of BOXXER explained on TalkSPORT that what ends up on PPV is down to ‘the cost of the main event’, going on to say that Eubank’s star power warranted it.
“Eubank Jr’s probably the biggest name in British boxing outside of the heavyweight division. So how do you give him the highest risk fight that he’s taken in a long time.
A 50/50 fight against a former world champion from Britain that brings a huge crowd of his own…”
“It’s a huge fight, and, unfortunately the numbers – in any way that you chop that up – you cannot make this otherwise.”
Fans who plan to view from home will be buoyed by the undercard, which features some big fights and domestic talent.
Joseph Parker returns from his defeat at the hands of Joe Joyce for a curious contest against former cruiserweight and local boy, Jack Massey – a loss in which would leave the New Zealander with no clear path back to the top of the heavyweight division.
Richard Riakporhe faces Krzysztof Glowacki, and Ekow Essuman will defend his British and Commonwealth welterweight title against Chris Kongo.
Frazer Clarke has also been announced to feature, however his opponent – the fifth of his pro career – is yet to be announced.