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The world of boxing is buzzing with excitement as Saudi Arabia's growing influence and financial power pave the way for long-awaited matches to come together in record time.
Rumors abound that the highly anticipated light heavyweight unification bout between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol could soon be confirmed, thanks to the influx of interest and cash from Saudi Arabia. Bivol, the WBA and IBO champion, recently cleared his 2024 schedule with a convincing win over Lyndon Arthur in Saudi Arabia.
Now, Beterbiev must fulfill his end of the bargain, although it may not be as straightforward as anticipated. Beterbiev, the WBC, IBF, and WBO champion, is set to face British fighter Callum Smith in Quebec City on January 13th. Both Smith and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, are confident that an upset is in the cards.
Speaking to Boxing Social, Smith expressed his confidence, saying,
"I’m confident in my own ability, and I feel I can beat him when I’m at my best. I believe the best version of me beats anyone in the world."
Smith's confidence is not without merit. While Beterbiev has been a dominant force in the ring, Smith is considered one of the most accomplished fighters the Russian-Canadian has encountered. Despite never facing someone with Beterbiev's unique skill set, Smith believes he has what it takes to pull off an upset.
Standing at 6ft 3in tall, with a history of explosive knockouts, Smith brings a formidable challenge to Beterbiev. Known for his thudding power and relentless pressure, Beterbiev has never faced an opponent quite like Smith, who possesses both the physical stature and the skill set to make an impact in the light heavyweight division.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits the outcome of Smith's showdown with Beterbiev, the potential clash between Beterbiev and Bivol looms large, promising to be a spectacle that fans have been clamoring for. With Saudi Arabia's influence shaping the landscape of boxing, the sport is witnessing an era of rapid evolution and unexpected matchups.
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