Boxing Championship: If Joe Smith Jr escapes a stunning upset loss against Steve Geffrard, he might be in line for a massive clash with Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez.
Smith Jr defends his WBO light-heavyweight championship against Geffrard, as the American looks to cement his name as one of the division’s best fighters.
However, the 32-year-old is mindful of Geffrard, a last-minute replacement for Britain’s Callum Johnson, who is hoping for a surprise triumph in New York.
“I’m anticipating a tough, hard fight,” Smith Jr. said. “He’ll give it his best because he’s been handed a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s not anything I’m worried about.”
Geffrard, 31, has gone 18-0 since losing his first two professional fights.
“I was in the sauna when I got the call!” Geffrard revealed. “I was excited for Smith vs. Johnson, and then all of a sudden, I’m the one fighting for the title. It’s incredible!
“I’m confident that I’ll be able to meet the challenge. I keep telling myself that I’m going to demonstrate what Steve Geffrard is all about to the rest of the world. I have the opportunity to showcase my abilities on a magnificent platform.”
Promoter Bob Arum feels Geffrard is just one punch away from a spectacular victory.
Arum told Sky Sports, “I think he recognises the chance.” “What does he stand to gain by doing so?
“It would be a major setback.” We’ve seen footage of the child, and he’s a really excellent fighter.
“Anything is possible in this light-heavyweight class with a punch.”
Is it possible that Smith Jr. will face Canelo this year?
Smith Jr. of Long Island is best known for sending boxing legend Bernard Hopkins flying through the ropes in his final fight and delivering his sole stoppage loss.
He wants to establish himself as the light-heavyweight division’s No. 1 champion, defeating Artur Beterbiev (IBF and WBC champion) and Dmitry Bivol (WBA).
Canelo is an odd motivation for Smith Jr, though Arum did indicate that, like Beterbiev, another fighter he represents, the 32-year-old was a contender in the sweepstakes to fight the Mexican in May.
Arum stated, “The ball is in Canelo’s court.”
“Canelo is the biggest draw in boxing right now; he’s a phenomenal talent and a phenomenal fighter who, for the most part, chooses his opponents.” He also seeks for the best men.
“So he might fight Beterbiev or Smith, but it’s up to Canelo, and I believe he’s planning a fight in May.”
Smith Jr has long stated his desire to unify the light-heavyweight championships, but he must first overcome an unforeseen stumbling block in Geffrard.
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