Error code: %{errorCode}

    Boxing

    Callum Smith reveals what is motivating him for Joshua Buatsi bout

    Callum Smith reveals what is motivating him for Joshua Buatsi boutMatchroom
    Watch Smith vs Buatsi Feb 22 live on DAZN PPV
    Watch Smith vs Buatsi Feb 22 live on DAZN PPV

    Callum Smith insists that the "fire is still there" as he prepares to face Joshua Buatsi in pursuit of moving into the picture for a light-heavyweight world title shot.

    The former super-middleweight belt holder will face his fellow Briton on a stacked card at Riyadh Season's The Last Crescendo, live on DAZN Pay-Per-View on February 22.

    Smith is bidding to become a two-time world champion following his loss to Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez in 2020, and lasted seven rounds with Artur Beterbiev in January last year.

    But a win over rising star and WBO interim champion Buatsi would put him on the fast track for a rematch or to face Dmitry Bivol for another shot at the light-heavyweight crown.

    Beterbiev vs Bivol 2 / Dubois vs Parker

    "The fire is still there," he said. "I always set myself goals, and I've been lucky throughout my career to achieve them all.

    "But now I've set a goal to become a two-weight world champion. It's still not done, and that's why I'm here. I think I'm good enough to do it.

    "A win over Josh puts me one step closer to being there. It's a great fight. I respect Josh as a fighter, but he's got something I want. He's the WBO interim champion.

    "A win against him and taking his belt puts me a little bit closer to where I want to be, so there's a lot at stake for me.

    "If something motivates me, I'll get up and go to the gym, and give everything I have. This fight definitely motivates me.

    "I'll do everything I can in my power to make sure the best version of me steps into the ring, and I believe I'm good enough to get the job done."

    Watch Smith vs Buatsi and full Last Crescendo card live on DAZN PPV

     

    Watch Callum Smith versus Joshua Buatsi and the full Last Crescendo fight card, including Dubois vs Parker and Beterbiev vs Bivol, live on DAZN Pay-Per-View.

    As a PPV event, no subscription is required and this is a one off cost with no future commitment.

    PPV costs will be announced shortly.