Callum Smith plans to take advantage of Artur Beterbiev's weaknesses
Photo Credit: Mikey Williams/Top Rank
Callum Smith (29-1, 21KO) challenges unified WBC, IBF and WBO middleweight champion Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19KO) on Saturday, January 13 in Quebec, Canada.
Speaking to Boxing News, "Mundo" explained exactly what he needs to do to get the win over the fearsome puncher on the 13th day of the New Year.
Smith said, "I've just got to be smart and just pick the same as my whole career, I feel I'm an intelligent fighter, I'm not just [going to] come out swinging and I'm not a dancer and mover, I'll mix it a little bit of both.
"I can punch, I know when to punch, when to move, when to defend well and even more so in this fight. You've got to be switched on for every second of every round. He's a big puncher. His record speaks for itself.
"But he's not an opponent I've ever watched and wondered how I beat him, I do see holes in him, I see gaps where he can be hurt, and I plan on taking advantage of them this weekend."
During the press conference, the Liverpool hero stated, “I’m here to do a job. I’m here to become a world champion again. I’m here with my team. And as long as I’m with them, I can be anywhere and feel like home. I’m in a good place mentally and physically, and I’m ready to perform.
“This will be exciting. He’s a very good fighter. He’s a three-belt champion. So, his achievements speak for themselves. But, I believe in myself. I always have. I believe that the best version of me can beat anyone in the world. I fully stand by that.
“I’ve improved a lot over the last couple of years with [my trainer] Buddy McGirt. And the time is now. I’m ready to become a two-division world champion. I’m being presented with the opportunity this weekend, and it’s an opportunity I plan on taking.
“Regardless of whether the crowd is cheering for me or against me, I’m there to do a job. My focus is on my opponent. It’s nice to have people cheering for you. But if they’re not, I’m still there to do the same thing.”
Where to watch Beterbiev-Smith?
USA: ESPN+
UK: Sky Sports
Latin America: ESPN KO / Star Plus
Time: 10pm ET / 3am UK