Last Saturday, the boxing world witnessed a captivating showdown between Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi at the mega event known as “Last Crescendo” in Riyadh. This match was not just an ordinary bout; it was a spectacular display of resilience and skill that could very well contend for the coveted Fight of the Year award. Smith’s determination and tactical prowess throughout the thrilling 12-round encounter highlighted his enduring reputation as a formidable competitor in the boxing arena.
With a hard-fought victory in the bag, Smith has firmly established himself as the WBO interim champion in the 175-pound division. The Liverpool native, now sporting a record of 31 wins, 2 defeats, and 22 knockouts, has rekindled the fire of his ambitions, setting his sights on conquering the light-heavyweight realm and ultimately achieving two-weight world champion status. Having previously held the WBA super middleweight title, Smith now seeks to elevate himself once more among boxing’s elite. His impressive performance against Buatsi undoubtedly showcased that he still has a wealth of talent and tenacity left to give to the sport.
As he contemplates his next steps, it’s clear that Dmitry Bivol, the reigning champion with an impressive collection of belts and only one defeat to his name, is the logical target for Smith’s aspirations. Expressing his desire to reclaim a world title, Smith candidly stated, “Bivol’s got the belts, so ideally Bivol.” This bold ambition reflects Smith’s unwavering spirit as he contemplates the hard road ahead. Bivol, known for his technical proficiency and strategic fighting style, poses significant challenges. Should the opportunity arise to face Bivol, Smith would likely enter the ring as an underdog, yet history has shown that opponents often underestimate his capacity for explosive performances.
It’s crucial to recognize that before this resurgence, Smith faced a notable setback when he was stopped by Artur Beterbiev earlier in 2024. Many suggested that this defeat could signify the end of his journey in competitive boxing. However, Smith’s response to this loss—returning strong against Buatsi—illustrates not only his physical toughness but also his mental resilience. Critics who doubted his abilities had to reckon with an intense performance that silenced skeptics and revitalized his career.
As anticipation builds for Bivol’s next matchup—whether against Smith or another opponent—the boxing community is eager for what lies ahead. Should Smith be granted a title shot, his journey would not only be a personal achievement but also a testament to the power of perseverance in sports. With his fighting spirit reignited, there is a palpable excitement for how far Callum Smith can go on this quest for championship glory once more. Whether he ascends to the top or faces new trials, one thing is certain: Callum Smith is not done yet.