WBC approval creates a direct belt path as champion targets a veteran returning to 168
Christian Mbilli has opened the door to Chris Eubank Jr after WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman signaled approval for the matchup, creating a direct route to a belt fight at super middleweight. When a champion speaks that plainly, gyms take notice.
Mbilli was recently elevated from interim to full WBC belt holder, placing him at the center of a division defined by pace, body work, and hard rounds. When the topic came up, the champion did not stall or hedge. He sounded ready to get on with it.
“Of course! See, that’s what I’m talking about,” Mbilli told World Boxing News.
Eubank Jr is expected to continue fighting despite a damaging loss to Conor Benn at middleweight in November, where he was dropped twice and outworked across the cards. The outing sparked debate about retirement, yet his team plans a return at a weight that suits him better.
Fighters who drain too much on the scale often regain snap once the body is refueled.
Sulaiman backed the idea of Eubank Jr competing for a belt.
“Absolutely he can fight for a world title,” Sulaiman said in an interview with Sky Sports. “Chris Eubank is a tremendous fighter. I believe he sacrificed too much with the weight, and he’s a natural fighter for that division. Great potential.”
He added, “He’s a world-class fighter without a doubt. We’re going to address the situation in the following weeks to see what is coming up for Mbilli and the division.”
The WBC also pointed to other possible opponents.
“Of course, Canelo, Munguia, Lester Martinez, Luka Plantic. There are so many fighters who can make great fights for the champion, Mbilli.”
Mbilli leaned into the appeal.
“Eubank, it would be a big fight. It would also be a fan-friendly fight. And I would love to represent Cameroon, France, and Quebec, Canada across the world.”
From a trainer’s view, the pairing promises hard exchanges. Mbilli fights with pressure, keeps the jab busy, and throws in bunches once he pins opponents near the ropes. He is comfortable working the body and staying active deep into rounds.
Eubank Jr relies on conditioning and punch output, yet at 36 the questions land on punch resistance and foot speed after the knockdowns. To compete at this level, he must keep his guard tight, step in behind the jab, and avoid reaching when he opens up.
Belts open doors. Authority is earned when a champion turns back a recognized name and keeps the belt the hard way.
If this fight gets signed, expect Mbilli to claim center ring, pump the jab, and press the pace behind steady volume. Eubank Jr.’s route runs through angles, sharp counters, and tight guard work. Set your feet too long in front of Mbilli and the rounds start to wear on you.