Artur Beterbiev batters Joe Smith Jr. into submission

Power is the great equalizer. Technique makes the power happen.

Then there’s execution. 

Explosive WBC and IBF champion Artur Beterbiev teed off on Joe Smith Jr., stopping the hometown hero in two brutal rounds. With the win, Beterbiev added the WBO title to his collection. 

In the opening round, Smith came out aggressively, forcing Beterbiev, a notorious slow starter, to kick himself into gear. After finding his range, he began to tee off. Beterbiev (18-0, 18 KOs) coolly moved and landed a solid right cross. 

Smith fought back. Beterbiev, a two-time Olympian, fired clubbing punches – one floored Smith for a two count. 

Beterbiev,37,came out punching in round two. His right hand was landing consistently. Another powerful blow sent Smith (28-4, 22 KOs) to the floor. Seconds later, a sweeping right clipped Smith on the temple - collapsing him again. The man is strong. 

Smith,32, got up quickly - his eyes showing disbelief. Beterbiev moved in for the kill. He cocked his right and let it go. It landed - followed by two vicious uppercuts that staggered Smith. 

Referee Harvey Dock had seen enough. He waved the fight off. 

Time was 2:19 seconds into round two. 

“I want to be a good boxer one day, “said Beterbiev. “Joe was a little open – it was easy for me to get him. Both fighters have a good punch, this time I was lucky and got first.”

Luck didn’t appear to play any part in Beterbiev’s destruction of Smith. He was measured and on point. 

Smith, never down in his 31-fight professional career, was confused and shellshocked.