A British domestic showdown in the welterweight division between Jack Catterall and Harlem Eubank is reportedly being planned for July 5th, likely taking place in Manchester.
Eddie Hearn, Catterall`s promoter, has expressed strong interest in this matchup. He also mentioned potential interest in a third fight between Catterall and his longtime foe Josh Taylor. Taylor is scheduled to compete at welterweight for the first time on May 24th against Ekow Essuman.
Hearn stated, “Both potential fights are very interesting to me. Taylor has a bout coming up soon. The Eubank fight is appealing because the Eubank name currently has high visibility, and Harlem is performing well, drawing significant viewership on Channel 5. Jack is returning and needs a substantial contest, making this a superb all-British encounter. We`ll see how things develop.”
When asked about the progress of negotiations for the Catterall-Eubank fight, Hearn replied that discussions were positive. “I believe both fighters are keen on it. We also want the fight. We`ll see if we can finalize the agreement,” he added.
Reports suggest that the bout is nearing finalization for the date of July 5th, potentially held at the AO Arena in Manchester.
Sources indicate this date and location are probable, although not officially confirmed yet.
It appears Catterall has moved past the super-lightweight division (140 lbs), a weight class he competed at for more than ten years. A fight that was expected to be his career highlight resulted in a significant setback when the southpaw from Chorley controversially lost to Josh Taylor in their undisputed championship bout in February 2022. However, Catterall later secured revenge for this defeat in May 2023.
His hopes for a second world title opportunity at 140 lbs were thwarted in February when Arnold Barboza Jr defeated him by decision, earning the WBO Interim belt and a challenge against champion Teofimo Lopez. Barboza`s subsequent title attempt proved unsuccessful on May 2nd, as Lopez successfully defended his championship via unanimous decision.
Eubank, who is Chris Jr.`s cousin, transitioned from super-lightweight in 2023 to pursue more significant challenges at 147 pounds (welterweight). In his two contests at welterweight, the undefeated 31-year-old secured a points victory over Nurali Erdogan across eight rounds, and in March 2024, stopped tough Irish opponent Tyrone McKenna in the tenth round. Notably, Catterall also has a victory over McKenna, defeating the Belfast fighter comprehensively over 10 rounds approximately seven years ago.
Speaking recently about a potential clash with Catterall, Eubank commented, “My aim is to fight this summer. We have publicly expressed interest in this fight, and discussions between both camps have been encouraging. We are now anticipating a formal offer and hope it reflects the significance of facing a fighter of Jack Catterall`s caliber.”
Catterall himself has indicated his readiness for this matchup via social media, posting about it on April 26th.
