Zerafa eyeing monster fight as world’s top promoter steps in

Michael Zerafa is pushing forward with plans to headline a major boxing card in Melbourne next year against second-generation British star Chris Eubank Jr.

After a controversial no contest against Nikita Tszyu, the 34-year-old has parted ways with promoters No Limit and linked up with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom.

Zerafa made the jump to join the British-based promotion in July and made his debut with a stoppage victory over Alejandro Ortiz last month.

Now, the polarising Australian middleweight is eyeing off a huge challenge.

Speaking to nine.com.au this week, Zerafa said the Eubank showdown is firmly on the table, with Hearn in Australia to meet with Victorian government officials.

“Me and Eubank’s team have been going back and forth for a while now, but the only downfall was that I didn’t have a promoter at the time and he’s a free agent, so it was hard to get it over the line,” Zerafa (35-5, 1 NC) said.

“Obviously now, signing with Eddie Hearn, he’s shown huge interest and wants to push the matter. We’re gonna have that meeting and hopefully get it over the line.

Read more

Gallen rips ‘disrespectful’ NRL giant after announcing comeback fight

“Eubank wants big money. He’s made (it) difficult, he wanted $10 million.

“Obviously everyone told him he’s not getting that. He got $10 million to fight Conor Benn, so trying to get $10 million to fight me, he’s a bit out of his depth.

“They’re saying early next year, around February or March – that would be ideal, that’s what we want and that’s what they’re pushing for.”

Eubank (39-4) is one of the biggest names in British boxing and his two fights with Benn last year drew global attention and countless headlines.

Since losing the second bout between the pair, Eubank has been linked with a trilogy fight against Benn – something that Hearn has already hinted at since the latter’s devastating second-round knockout loss to Ryan Garcia.

However, a clash with Zerafa in early-2027 appears a logical next landing spot.

Eubank’s father, Chris Sr, was one of boxing’s most recognisable stars in the 1990s and has had an off-again, on-again relationship with his 37-year-old son.

Before that potential fight, Zerafa said he would fulfil his contractual obligations with Matchroom in December, potentially taking on American star Tony Harrison – the former world champion who was knocked out by Tim Tszyu in 2023.

Zerafa is ranked as the world’s fourth-best middleweight title contender with the WBO and sixth with the WBA.

The deal with Matchroom is expected to help land major fights for Zerafa at home and abroad, with Hearn one of the sport’s biggest international promoters.