Last week he was the prehumous reincarnation of Sugar Ray Leonard. This week Chris Eubank Junior is just another boxer with a defeat against his previously unblemished record after having failed in a gallant attempt to overcome the more experienced Billy Joe Saunders at the Excel in London.
Fair play to the young Eubank, he came into this fight knowing it was a risk. There is nothing to be gained from being fed a diet of what Nigel Benn once famously described as "Mexican road sweepers". Those of us of a certain age remember Frank Bruno and his tedious Bum of the Month exploits and do not want to see another promising British fighter go through the larger part of his career knocking down stiffs. Saunders probably did more for Eubank's development than any number of inferior opponents.
Let's bear in mind too that whilst Eubank Jr. may have lost this fight, he didn't lose it by much. He came roaring back in the second half of the contest and in the end the decision was split. Although Saunders was the better fighter on the night, his courageous opponent left the ring with much to be proud of.
What he doesn't need right now is the pressure which comes with ludicrous comparisons with an all time great like Leonard to live up to. Eubank should take his time and reach out when he is ready. Just like his father did.
No comments:
Post a Comment