CHRIS EUBANK JR is more likely to fight for a world title next than rematching Billy Joe Saunders.
Saunders beat Eubank Jr in 2014 and their rivalry has continued to build ever since.
But the former two-weight world champion has been left considering his career after defeat to Canelo Alvarez, 31, in May 2021.
Saunders admitted the only fight he would return for would be against bitter rival Eubank Jr.
But promoter Ben Shalom, whose Boxxer banner is partnered with Sky Sports, poured cold water on the rematch.
Shalom told The Metro: “I think Chris would love that fight. But Billy Joe has had a lot of time off.
READ MORE BOXING STORIES
“He’s been enjoying himself and I think he’s miles off. Let’s hope he’ll be back in the ring soon, but we’ll see.”
Eubank Jr, 32, beat Welshman Liam Williams, 30, in Cardiff in February and targeted a mega-fight in his return.
But Kell Brook, 36, has announced his retirement and Saunders, 32, remains on the sidelines.
It means Eubank Jr could instead push on for a world title shot, having been well placed in the rankings.
FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS – BEST NEW CUSTOMER OFFERS
WBO title holder Demetrius Andrade, 34, looks set to move up to super-middleweight.
And WBC champion Jermall Charlo, 32, has talked up similar plans, meaning both titles could be vacated.
Gennady Golovkin, 40, owner of the WBA and IBF belts, is also going up to challenge for Canelo’s super-middleweight titles.
It leaves the 160lb straps potentially there for the taking, leaving Eubank Jr primed to take advanatage.
Shalom said: “If the opportunity is there to fight for a world title, he should be taking it, regardless of the name.
“I think once Chris has proved his world title credentials, it makes a potential fight with the likes of Conor Benn, Billy Joe or Golovkin later down the line so much bigger.”
Chris Eubank Jr beat Liam Williams in his last fight
