I'm not writing him off and still make him a favourite here. Given the respective ages though this delay definitely improves Smith's chances. Hopefully you're right and Artur still comes through I just think at some point he's going to age overnight and I don't think a years gap between fights is good for someone with his miles on the clock.
Callum has made some minor improvements under Buddy McGirt but he still needs his feet set to throw with power and can’t fight going backwards. i’ll back Beterbiev even with toothache.
Surely Smith can fight on some show vs some can and try out some of the things he has been doing in the gym. I think Smith will give a good account of himself. He has a good chin himself, a bit of pop and is big for the weight. Hopefully he pulls the upset off but he has to be positive in there and let his hands go.
I agree, Callum is more than capable of putting a decent shift in against Beterbiev. I thought Yarde put in a very decent showing and expect Callum to do the same. As you say, Callum can whack and box. I just feel that Beterbiev will prevail. He is a top tier, clever, prize fighter and will find a way eventually. Late stoppage by Beterbiev for me. I hope i’m wrong as I am a big fan of all the Smiths. They’ve been great for British boxing and given the fans some memorable nights.
Not joking. They’ve entertained me enough times. Solid fighting family. We won’t see four brothers like the Smiths for a very very long time, if at all.
I keep seeing this thread rising up the forum and each time I think "how can anyone take a nickname like Mundo seriously"
Yes, it’s right up there with : The Entertainer - Nelson Son of god - Ward The Cuban Flash - Sanchez (Self Styled) - Real Fighting Man! - guess who? There are so many ridiculous ones!