Catterall vs Eubank: Former title challenger does not shut door on light welterweight return

The star, off the back of a decision loss to Arnold Barboza Jr. that sunk his immediate hopes for another world title shot, has added the pounds to move up to welterweight.

• Read more | First details of Catterall-Eubank undercard emerge

He offers a sturdy acid test for the rising Eubank, unbeaten at 21-0 and determined to move past his latest foe at Manchester's AO Arena as he chases a major strap himself.

But at a cordial press conference on Tuesday where both paid respect to each other and ended their face-off with a handshake, Catterall did not close the door on his old division.

"I find myself in a position now where the natural step would be to make 147," he said. "It's got to be the right fights, and if they come at 140 in the future, then we'll consider that.

"Me and Harlem spoke before, when he was fighting at 140 two or three fights ago. It's a blessing and a privelege to come back to Manchester and headline.

"My back's against the wall coming off a defeat. I've been working on myself - I went to America to do a lot of sparring. Now I'm come home and knuckled down to train.

"When the phone rang and they presented Harlem, it was a yes. I've never turned down any fights. What excites me is that it is a domestic fight.

"They are the fights throughout my career where I've probably performed at my best. The pressure is on but I thrive under pressure.

"Coming off a defeat, I've got to go in there, perform and prove I belong at this level. He's a hungry, determined fighter chomping at the bit to fight for world titles

"But that gives me the motivation to double down. I don't think we need trash talk. We're going to settle it in the ring, and I'm going to be victorious."

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