Photo: Matchroom Boxing – Callum Smith, a.k.a. “Mundo” Smith.
The year 2024 in Quebec boxing starts strong with the arrival of the Englishman Callum Smith, coming to challenge Artur Beterbiev for the three light heavyweight titles. Beterbiev, our champion, won his first title in 2017 and has defended his crown seven times, demolishing each opponent with exceptional power: 19 KOs in 19 fights.
Callum Smith, with a record of 29-1, has only tasted defeat once, against Saul “Canelo” Alvarez, where he claimed to have suffered a bicep injury. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, Smith seemed uncomfortable at 168 pounds. But who really is Callum Smith, the one who dreams of knocking out Beterbiev early in the fight? Let’s analyze this in depth.
4 Brothers, All Champions
- Paul Smith (38-7, 22 KOs): Known for his fights against Arthur Abraham, knocked out by Georges Groves and James Degale. Now a DJ in England.
- Stephen Smith (28-4, 15 KOs): Lost a world championship to Jose Pedraza and nearly lost an ear against Francisco Vargas.
- Liam Smith (33-4-1, 20 KOs): A solid boxer who has faced everyone in England, he troubled Canelo before being knocked out.
Callum Smith: His Strengths
I have always admired Callum Smith. His way of throwing his jab to the head and body, his sneaky use of his rear hand, and his precision convinced me of his danger. He demonstrated his power in 2014 against Nikola Sjekloca, massacred Rocky Fielding, and sent Georges Groves into retirement, becoming the undisputed number one in the 168-pound division.
Callum Smith: His Weaknesses
The house of cards collapsed against Canelo Alvarez. Despite being a head taller, Smith was intimidated throughout the fight, unable to handle Canelo’s pressure. He wasn’t outclassed, but never made the fight competitive, merely seeking to reach the end without being knocked out.
Callum Smith: The Benefit of the Doubt
Eddie Hearn and Anson Wainwright do not make me doubt Beterbiev. Callum Smith has only fought six rounds at 175 pounds, with just one fight per year in 2021 and 2022, inactive in 2023. His weaknesses under pressure and inactivity are concerning.
And Beterbiev?
At 38, some analysts worry about Beterbiev. Anthony Yarde was leading on two of the three judges’ scorecards during their fight. However, Beterbiev remains a formidable force, capable of finishing his opponents when he sees fear in their eyes.
My Prediction
I see the fight unfolding clearly. Callum Smith will win three of the first five rounds. Beterbiev will analyze his angles and movements, and starting from the fifth round, he will take control, hunting Smith as Canelo did. Beterbiev will finish the fight with a TKO in the 10th round.
Artur Beterbiev by TKO in the 10th round.
