Smith wins unanimous decision
‘I’m shocked Callum Smith won the fight’ … Said no one ever. As expected Callum Smith retained his WBC’ Diamond’ Super Middleweight title against last minute replacement Nieky Holzken. The Dutchman, a former kickboxer and undefeated up until tonight was called up from injury reserve to replace former World Light Heavyweight Champion, Jurgen Braehmer. Braehmer pulling out of the fight after illness rendered him unable to compete.
Smith booked his place in the World Boxing Super Series Final against fellow Englishman, WBA ‘Super’ Champion George Groves (who was ringside). The final, slated for June 2ndat London’s O2 arena, will all depend on whether Groves is able to go into camp following his shoulder injury last Saturday night.
But let this be said, the performance was far from inspired, and that he certainly didn’t have it his own way. Smith won the fight by unanimous decision. The judges returning scores of 118-110 and 117-111 twice.
Smith’s trademark left jab made the difference, such was the lack of Holzken’s head movement and standing square on. Smith was clearly the more skilled man in the ring, producing a higher workrate and made good use of a left uppercut and his shots to the body, much the same as we him produce in every fight. However, Holzken had his own success, mostly with a counter right hand to keep the champion honest. Much praise must be awarded to Holzken for coming into this fight on five days’ notice. Whilst his skill set did appear limited, he caught Smith plenty, outworking him on occasion as Smith’s work laboured in the later rounds.
What is perhaps more worrying for Smith, is that his nose appeared to be broken for a second consecutive bout. And much like his fight with Erik Skoglund, he allowed Holzken into the fight in the second round.
London here we come!
By: Aaron Cooper
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