Joe Smith Feels His Boxing Abilities Are Better Than Artur Beterbiev’s

Joe Smith trusts in his ability to dethrone Artur Beterbiev.

Smith captured world championship gold for the first time in his pro boxing career when he defeated Maxim Vlasov. He is now the WBO Light-Heavyweight titleholder.

Smith’s ultimate goal is to unify all the major gold at 175 pounds. Standing in his way are Beterbiev and Dmitry Bivol. Beterbiev holds the WBC and IBF Titles, while Bivol is the WBA Champion.

Speaking to Pro Boxing Fans, Smith said he thinks he can snatch Beterbiev’s gold and be one step closer to undisputed status (h/t Boxingscene.com).

“I’ve just got to be myself. Show up 100% and just stay busy and I believe I can pull it off. I think I have what it takes to beat Beterbiev.

“I have the power to match his and I believe I’m a little faster and my boxing abilities I believe are better.”

Smith shouldn’t have much difficulty getting the Beterbiev fight. Both champions compete under the Top Rank Boxing banner. Beterbiev could prove to be a stern test as he’s undefeated with all of his wins ending in a knockout or TKO.

As for Bivol, Smith has a loss at the hands of the WBA Champion but he’s hoping for a rematch to unify the gold.