This past Saturday, the boxing world witnessed an electrifying showcase during the “Last Crescendo” card held in Riyadh, where Liverpool’s Callum Smith stood out with an exhilarating performance. Facing off against Joshua Buatsi, Smith delivered a captivating 12-round clash that has sparked discussions about its potential candidacy for Fight of the Year. The bout was a true test of skill, endurance, and grit, as both fighters engaged in a back-and-forth battle that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
With this victory, Smith not only solidified his position as the WBO interim champion at 175 pounds but also reignited hopes for a renewed championship run in boxing. His record is now an impressive 31 wins, including 22 by knockout, against just 2 losses. The former WBA super middleweight titlist has set his sights on a momentous aspiration: to become a two-weight world champion. At 34 years of age, Smith’s resolve is unwavering as he expresses a strong desire for a shot at Dmitry Bivol, the dominant figure in the light-heavyweight division.
In an interview with The Ring, Smith voiced his ambition clearly: “Bivol’s got the belts, so ideally Bivol.” His statement highlights not only his fierce competitive spirit but also his acknowledgment of the challenging road ahead. Bivol, known for his technical prowess and strategic fighting style, presents a formidable challenge, having only suffered one loss in his career—a close decision against Artur Beterbiev.
Smith’s recent resurgence follows a difficult chapter in his career, during which he experienced a setback against Beterbiev in January 2024. It was a fight that raised questions about his future in the sport, but his subsequent victories have demonstrated that he is far from finished. The intense matchup against Buatsi was a testament to his determination and skill, dispelling doubts from critics who believed he could no longer compete at an elite level.
Yet the prospect of facing Bivol looms large. While Smith possesses the necessary attributes—guts, power, and resilience—to potentially unseat the champion, he knows the odds may not be in his favor. Bivol’s adept boxing ability and experience would likely make him the favorite in a bout against Smith, but the latter’s recent performances signal that he cannot be underestimated.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Smith?
As Smith continues his journey towards reclaiming world championship glory, the boxing community eagerly anticipates Bivol’s next move. Whether Smith will get the opportunity to challenge for the titles remains to be seen, but his recent form and the fire he displayed in his bout against Buatsi have certainly earned him the right to aim high. Should he succeed in clinching a championship in the light-heavyweight division, it would mark a remarkable achievement not just for Smith, but for the sport as well.
Callum Smith’s journey epitomizes the essence of resilience in boxing. With ambitions to once again rise to the pinnacle of the sport, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as he navigates the challenges that lie ahead in pursuit of his championship dream.