Joshua Buatsi is set to defeat Callum Smith to safe a shot on the Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol winner.
Beterbiev rematches Bivol for the undisputed light-heavyweight world championship on Saturday, dwell on Sky Sports activities Field Workplace.
On the identical Riyadh Season occasion, Buatsi places his WBO Interim light-heavyweight belt on the road towards Liverpool’s Smith.
The victor of their combat can be on target for a shot on the full world championship.
“For sure after I win they’ve got to say Buatsi you’re next up,” Buatsi advised Sky Sports activities.
“The main target is about me cementing my place – get the win after which hopefully combat the winner.
“It is the Interim belt that I’ve acquired. I am not trying previous Smith however that is who I’ve to get previous to solidify my place.
“I know it’s someone I have to beat to even have that conversation. I’m really fixated on making sure that I don’t slip up here and I get the win.”
In addition to coaching with coach Virgil Hunter in Oakland, he is had some professional assist from boxing legend, and a former unified light-heavyweight world champion, Andre Ward.
Buatsi even acquired to spar with Ward as he acquired some teaching steering.
“We sparred a bit,” Buatsi mentioned. “It was different to see someone put into practice what they say.
“It was good to see him, get in there and spar, and present me a number of issues.”
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Smith says the stress is on Buatsi to win their combat and his sparring with Andre Ward won’t be a deciding issue
London’s Buatsi has by no means misplaced an expert contest. However Smith, a former world champion at super-middleweight who’s solely been defeated by Beterbiev and Canelo Alvarez, can be his hardest combat but.
“This is definitely the toughest and most credible opponent. It’s going to be a big fight,” Buatsi mentioned.
However he does anticipate to be higher than ever earlier than himself. “There will be improvements from my last fight that you will see,” he mentioned.
“I’m learning the right things. I’m with the right team with the right training and I believe in my abilities as well.
“Favour plus arduous work equals victory.”
Daniel Dubois v Joseph Parker and the Artur Beterbiev v Dmitry Bivol rematch will be live on Saturday February 22 on Sky Sports Box Office. Ebook now!
