Callum Smith is ready for the ultimate test at light heavyweight and that’s a meeting with the hard-hitting Artur Beterbiev.
The Liverpool man is now mandatory for a shot at Beterbiev’s world titles and after easing into his new weight class following multiple successes at 168lbs, Smith is prepared to give it his all against the 38-year-old.
Beterbiev further enhanced his impressive credentials this past weekend with an eighth-round stoppage over Anthony Yarde in a thrilling encounter.
Both fighters had their moments in the bout, but it was the extra power of Beterbiev that made the difference. It now appears very likely that Beterbiev vs. Smith will be next, and the latter is feeling confident about the potential showdown.
“I believe I can beat anyone on the planet. I believe I can win the belts as well,” said Smith when speaking to Sky Sports.
"He's European style, applies pressure but doesn't just race forward, he's clever how he does it and obviously heavy-handed. He has been hurt, he's been put over twice as a professional and he's not invincible.
"I've seen other fighters hurt him and put him over, I fully believe I can. I'm in my peak years now and the time to beat him is now."