Callum Smith is considering a move up to cruiserweight to challenge Badou Jack for the WBC world title.
Smith, a former super-middleweight champion, is coming off a victory against Joshua Buatsi in a thrilling match last month.
This win earned Smith the WBO interim belt, positioning him for a potential world title shot in a second weight division.
While considering a cruiserweight challenge against Jack, Smith remains focused on the light-heavyweight division.
‘I’d love the Badou Jack fight,’ Smith mentioned, expressing his interest in the bout if the opportunity arises.
Smith clarifies he doesn’t see himself or Jack as true cruiserweights, but it’s a fight he would seriously consider.
Smith aims to become a two-weight world champion. A light-heavyweight title opportunity is a more immediate goal, whether against Dmitry Bivol, for a vacant title, or by being elevated to full champion.
Having sparred with Bivol as an amateur, Smith is open to a professional fight with the current undisputed light-heavyweight champion.
‘He’s the top fighter in the division,’ Smith acknowledged, aware of Bivol’s mandatory obligations and potential high-profile fights like a trilogy with Artur Beterbiev or a match with David Benavidez.
Smith also still dreams of fighting at Anfield, his hometown stadium in Liverpool.
‘Timing is crucial,’ Smith noted, recognizing the need for the right circumstances, opponent, and event for an Anfield fight to materialize.
‘It’s the ultimate ambition, not just for me, but for many Liverpool boxers.’
Another British boxer, Anthony Yarde, is also a possible opponent for Smith.
‘If it’s for a world title, it makes sense,’ Smith stated. ‘I believe I’m a top light-heavyweight, especially the best in Britain. My win over Buatsi proved that, and I’d fight Yarde to prove it again if needed.’
The fight against Buatsi is being hailed as a potential fight of the year candidate.
‘It was a high-intensity fight, especially round six. In the later rounds, it was all about willpower,’ Smith reflected. ‘I felt completely battered the next day, but winning makes it easier to handle.’
Smith believes a rematch with Buatsi would be similar, but he’s not eager for an immediate second fight, and suspects Buatsi might feel the same.
