Callum Smith Patiently Waiting For His Big Fight Opportunity
With the sport of boxing at a standstill due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many fighters and promoters are using social media to not only keep their name visible for fans and media but also to give an update on how they are coping having their careers suddenly being temporarily put on hold.
On Instagram Live, Matchroom Boxing boss Eddie Hearn conducted an April 3 live chat with WBA “Super” World Super Middleweight champion Callum Smith (27-0, 19 KOs). The two discussed how Smith is adjusting to this new reality and potential opponents once the sport returns to normalcy.
Smith is frustrated he can’t display his talent in the ring. Still, he understands he’s in the same predicament as every other boxer at the moment.
Callum Smith was in the running to fight Canelo Alvarez before negotiations fell through. The 29-year-old from Liverpool, England was annoyed discussions were so tedious only to end with no deal. According to him, his team did everything possible to make the fight. One concession included being willing to accept less money than he felt he deserved. Ultimately, the Brit felt the fight was not meant to be.
ASSESSING THE DIVISION
Asked about his assessment of the other world champions in the super middleweight division, Smith gave an interesting breakdown.
“It’s hard to split the other champions. They’re all unbeaten, they all have very different styles. Obviously, Billy Joe is a slick mover, not the biggest for the weight but skillful.
Plant is a good mover, good boxing ability, but I don’t think is the biggest puncher. Where Benavidez probably doesn’t have the boxing ability of the other two, but is the biggest puncher out of them and is more spiteful”.
During the interview, Hearn mentioned that former WBA & IBF Middleweight world champion Daniel Jacobs was watching the discussion and said a Smith – Jacobs showdown would be a big fight either in the UK or possibly at Madison Square Garden the United States. Hearn’s comment may signal he’s probably eyeing a potential fight between the two down the road.
The interview concluded with Smith being questioned about his dream fight. For the 6’3″ boxer-puncher he’s willing to fight any big name out there believing he’s the best in the world at 168-pounds.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
