British boxer Chris Eubank Jr has travelled to Nigeria as he weighs a return to the ring, his first move toward a comeback since losing to Conor Benn last November. He posted footage from Lagos, saying he was active in the city and that fans should watch this space.
A trip that has fans talking
Eubank Jr shared video of himself being greeted by a large crowd of young fans in Lagos, fuelling speculation about his next steps. The visit is his most public activity since he underwent surgery and treatment following the Benn rematch.
The warm reception underlined the boxer’s popularity in a country with deep ties to his family’s heritage and a fast-rising appetite for the sport.
Why he has been away
The 36-year-old has not fought since November, when he was beaten on points by his long-time rival at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. He had won their first meeting earlier in the year, but looked a shadow of himself in the rematch, later revealing he had been dealing with health issues that required medical attention.
After the fight, Eubank Jr said he would not return until he was back to full fitness, telling fans he would do everything in his power to make a comeback when the time was right. His father, the former world champion Chris Eubank Sr, had earlier suggested his son should consider retirement.
A possible fight in Lagos
Nigerian promoter Dr Ezekiel Adamu told Sky Sports that talks had been held with the government and that he hoped Eubank Jr’s next fight could take place in Lagos. Adamu described the boxer as one of the biggest draws in world boxing and said Nigeria had the talent, backing and resources to stage major events.
Adamu framed the visit as part of a wider push to position Nigeria as a hub for international boxing, bringing global names to the country while showcasing homegrown fighters. Boxing has been gaining momentum across Africa, with promoters viewing Nigeria as a key market for the sport’s expansion.
What comes next
Eubank Jr’s team has previously suggested he could return in the final months of the year, likely at super-middleweight, where he would avoid the punishing weight cuts that marked his fights with Benn. His record stands at 35 wins and 4 losses, with 25 knockouts.
For now, the trip to Lagos has reopened questions about when and where he will fight again. If a deal comes together, a Nigerian return would mark a notable moment for the country’s growing boxing scene, and any announcement would be closely watched by fans.
