Eddie Hearn believes that Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) will give the current IBF, WBC and WBO light heavyweight champion, Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs) a run for his money when they clash on August 19 at the Centre Videotron in Quebec City.
Despite Beterbiev's unbeaten record and 100% knockout rate, Hearn firmly believes that the 38-year-old champion is past his prime and vulnerable to the power of 33-year-old Callum.
Hearn envisions a scenario where Smith finds himself backed against the ropes, much like in his previous encounters with Canelo Alvarez and John Ryder, only to unleash a devastating left hook that secures a remarkable first-round knockout victory over Beterbiev.
This strong conviction on Hearn's part stems from Beterbiev's underwhelming performance against Anthony Yarde in January. The lackluster display has led Hearn to conclude that the unified light heavyweight champion is now primed for defeat, with Smith being the perfect candidate to accomplish that feat.
"Callum Smith is going to knock Beterbiev spark out. You know, like a face-down type of knockout? Sometimes you see it, and he’s [Callum Smith] is going to be up against the ropes, and Beterbiev is going to come in like he does and square up his feet, and Callum is going to do what he does best, which is to catch-counter with the left hook with a one-punch knockout. He’s definitely slipping. He’s like 39 years old, but he’s also a beast. He’s unbelievable. Sooner or later [he’s going to get beat]," Hearn said.
Beatrice Adamu is a writer for AceTVBoxing.com. She can be reached on Twitter @oh_stillbella or via email: adamubeatrice13@gmail.com.
Be the First to Comment