Callum Smith Welcomes Offer to Fight Joshua Buatsi Before Title Shot

Former world super middleweight champion, Liverpool’s Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs), has expressed openness to considering a fight with unbeaten domestic rival Joshua Buatsi (16-0, 13 KOs) ahead of his scheduled title shot. Speaking to IFL TV, Smith stated he is willing to entertain an offer for a bout with Buatsi before his guaranteed world title fight.

Callum Smith’s Position as WBC Mandatory Challenger

Smith is the WBC’s mandatory challenger at light heavyweight (175 lbs) and is next in line to face the winner of Artur Beterbiev vs Anthony Yarde, which takes place on January 28 at Wembley, with no exceptions.

Buatsi’s Previous Comments and Smith’s Willingness

Previously, Buatsi told the media that their shared promoter, Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, had proposed a fight between them. While representatives from Smith’s management team, STN Sports, initially suggested that a Smith vs Buatsi fight was unlikely, Smith has now confirmed he’s open to risking his title shot in a high-profile domestic showdown.

“I want a fight before facing the Beterbiev-Yarde winner. If Buatsi’s team wants to make me an offer, it’s something I’ll consider. But as of now, I haven’t received any offers. I want to fight in March and then roll into the world title,” said Smith.

Smith’s Planned Return in March

Smith also confirmed to IFL TV that he plans to return to the ring in March, ahead of his anticipated title clash. Hearn further confirmed via Twitter that Matchroom is staging a show in Liverpool on March 11, which is expected to be Smith’s next fight date.

The Potential Smith vs Buatsi Matchup

The current world #1 light heavyweight has now publicly challenged his promoter and Team Buatsi to officially offer him the fight against the London-based fighter, saying he would seriously consider the opportunity.

However, it remains to be seen whether an offer will materialize. There is also speculation that Matchroom/DAZN may prefer to stage other marquee matchups, including Beterbiev vs Smith and Dmitry Bivol vs Buatsi, as Bivol may require an interim fight before his anticipated rematch with Canelo Alvarez.

Follow NoSmokeBoxing on X