Artur Beterbiev’s next defence of his light-heavyweight titles looks set for August when the heavy-handed champion takes on Callum Smith in Canada.
Beterbiev had been eager to unify his titles with Dmitry Bivol, but that battle must wait as he fulfils his mandatory obligation against the Liverpool man.
Earlier this year, Beterbiev resisted the spirited effort of Anthony Yarde as he broke down the Londoner to grab himself another stoppage victory.
Smith, former world champion at 168lbs, is likely to represent a sterner test for Beterbiev, and Bob Arum, the promoter of the champion, has provided an update on when the fight will take place.
“That’s going to be in Quebec in early August,” said Arum when discussing the fight with ProBox TV.
“We have a beautiful arena we’re putting it in in Quebec, we’ve already secured the arena. We’re ready to go, and we’re sending out all the papers.
“I don’t know exactly what the date is, but he’ll be fighting Beterbiev in Quebec City in August. It’s a tremendous fight.”