Callum Smith is a well-known boxer but he also moonlights as a prophet. The 33-year-old told all who would listen that he would take home a world title at 168 pounds, even if it meant he had to go through George Groves and John Ryder. Fast forward a few years after checking off his first goal, Smith made another. This time, it was more brazen.
The light heavyweight division is barren at the bottom but stacked and dangerous at the top. Still, Smith has always wanted to become a two-division champion. In order to do so, he knew that he either had to take on Dmitry Bivol or Artur Beterbiev.
Ultimately, Beterbiev was the path chosen. Smith (29-2, 21 KOs) sauntered to the ring on January 13th both unfazed and unconcerned. Yet, once Beterbiev began landing bombs, Smith’s face started deteriorating.
A seventh-round knockout wasn’t in his future plans, but Smith now has to deal with it. In the immediate aftermath, Smith began mulling his retirement. He’s 33 years old and living the life of someone getting punched in the face, something he doesn’t enjoy.
Smith, just before making his decision, hopped on a plane, went home, and spent some quality time with family. It also allowed him to think things through. After doing so, that light at the end of his pugilistic tunnel isn’t quite as close as he thought it was.
“I want to be a two-weight world champion,” admitted Smith to Boxing News. “I would probably find it hard walking away knowing I never quite fulfilled what I set out to do.”
Stringing together a few wins won’t be arduous or improbable, but if Smith wants to become a champion, he’ll have to get through either Beterbiev or Bivol. He doesn’t know how he’ll do it or when he’ll get another opportunity. However, Smith is convinced that he can find a way to get it done.
“I believe I’m good enough to do it.”