Boxing

Artur Betterbiev and Joe Smith Jr. prepare for light heavy battle on June 18


Posted on 05/04/2022

By: Hans Themistode

Since the moment Joe Smith Jr wrapped the lightweight gold medal around his hip in 2021, the Long Island native has been anxious to confront the best that the 175-pound division has to offer.

Although Smith Jr was initially believed to be in a relationship with star heavyweight Canelo Alvarez, he was quick to dismiss those initial rumors. Instead, Smith Jr. has set his sights on facing Artur Betterbiev. After months of back-and-forth denials, the tough topic has officially landed a match he craves more than any other.

On June 18, at Madison Square Garden’s Hulu Theater, Smith Jr. and Betterbiev will collide in the main event. Tickets for the event will go on sale on May 12.

Earlier this year, Smith Jr successfully defended his newly won world title for the first time, defeating long-distancer Steve Geffrard, leading to victory in the ninth inning. With three world titles set in motion against Betterbiev, Smith Jr. have even greater aspirations. If the tough Long Islander comes out with a show of hands victory on June 18, he will become an undisputed world player.

But, despite Smith Jr.’s ambitions, Betterbiev will be looking to add another world title to his ever-growing collection. After an idle 2020, the Russian-born player is back with his victories in 2021.

First on his pugilistic calendar, was a confrontation with Adam Deines. While the fringe contender proved tenacious, Beterbiev finally found his way, scoring a knockout victory in the 10th round. Next up for the heavyweight champion, was a date with the former runner. track and field athlete Marcus Browne.

In an attempt to distance himself from Bettererbiev’s knocking power, Browne cautiously boxed on the outside. To further complicate matters for the Russian, blood poured from a deep cut that opened near the tip of his right eyebrow. However, despite the severity of his injuries, Betterbiev kept moving forward.

When Browne appeared exhausted in the second half, Beterbiev lost his man in the seventh and ninth rounds, before scoring the winning goal shortly after. For now, Betterbiev is satisfied with his recent performance. However, he is well aware of the dangers Smith Jr presents in the ring.

In the end, while Beterbiev braced for what was expected to be a grueling affair, he refused to allow Smith Jr., or anyone else for that matter, to come between him and his undisputed title dream.

“I look forward to the challenge ahead,” said Beterbiev. “Joe Smith Jr is a well-deserved champion, but I came to Madison Square Garden to add another world title to my collection. This fight will take me one step further towards becoming the undisputed champion. ”





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