Artur Beterbiev vs Joe Smith Jr – One step closer to undisputed

In a clash of heavy hitters, the chance to become undisputed awaits the winner. Artur Beterbiev (17-0, 17 KOs) collides with WBO ruler Joe Smith Jr. (28-3, 22 KOs) in a fight that also has the WBC and IBF light-heavyweight titles on the line. The unification bout will be available live on ESPN in the US and Sky Sports Main Event in the UK on June 18. I believe that viewers will be treated to a brutal and thrilling contest at the Hulu Theatre in Madison Square Garden.

Beterbiev is vaunted for his brutal finishing, but an aspect of his repertoire that sometimes gets overlooked is a mastery of boxing fundamentals. His footwork allows him to close the distance and land those hard shots that he is known for. Beterbiev also consistently throws and lands his jabs, helping him to set up his power punches. He is also able to land clean punches from various angles, making it hard for his opponents to defend themselves.

Although not as well schooled as Beterbiev, Smith has upset the odds repeatedly. He was the underdog against Andrzej Fonfara, Bernard Hopkins, Jesse Hart, and Eleider Alvarez. Smith ended up knocking out three of those men and also dropped Hart before claiming a split decision victory. Oddsmakers underestimated Smith’s power in those fights and Beterbiev cannot do the same. Beterbiev must also be wary of another Smith strength: his persistence. Smith may be trailing on the scorecards, but he will still come forward and attempt to land a knockout blow. In round 10 of his bout with Dmitry Bivol, Smith landed an overhand right that had the Russian visibly shaken. For as long as the fight lasts, Smith will have a puncher’s chance.

Given the power both men possess, it is hard to see this fight going more than seven or eight rounds. I believe that Beterbiev possesses the better overall skillset and will win by knockout. Defence is not a strong suit for Smith and that will prove costly against Beterbiev. As persistent as Smith may be, I see a fight where Beterbiev effectively closes the distance and lands punishing shots on the American. In spite of Smith’s heart, these shots will eventually break him down and force a stoppage.

The winner of this fight not only unifies three of the light-heavyweight titles, but they also remain on track to become undisputed in the weight class. Following this bout, they would only need to fight Bivol for his WBA belt. Beterbiev has long claimed that becoming undisputed is the one thing he would like to do before he calls it a day. Smith has sought a rematch with Bivol for some time and would be willing to take the fight as well. However, before an undisputed clash can occur, Beterbiev and Smith must deal with each other.

2022 has been an excellent year for boxing with several high-profile bouts and unifications. Beterbiev-Smith is yet another excellent contest fans can look forward to. This fight will certainly not let the fans down.