Beterbiev versus Smith – An insightful preview of the highly-anticipated showdown

This weekend, Quebec City becomes the nucleus of the boxing universe. Known for its passionate fans who create electrifying arenas for home-grown talents, this city has witnessed some unforgettable moments. One such instance was back in January 2014 at the Bell Centre when Jean Pascal faced Lucian Bute, with a younger Artur Beterbiev fighting Gabriel Lecrosnier on the undercard, securing a win to achieve a flawless 4-0 record.

Beterbiev holds the IBF, WBO, and WBC light-heavyweight titles, making this fight his second title defense on Canadian soil. Excitement fills the Videotron Centre as the local favorite squares off against UK challenger Callum Smith.

The betting sites Betting enthusiasts will be actively setting odds for this matchup, with high stakes typical of such monumental boxing events. Additionally, the card’s supportive lineup promises impressive bouts worth watching, and we’ll share our insights into the two standout undercard fights, alongside forecasting the outcome of Beterbiev vs Smith.

This main event has all the ingredients for a classic bout. Energized by a supportive home crowd, a challenger feeling underestimated, and five months of waiting added to the tension, this is a boxing night not to be missed.

In the spring of last year, the WBC informed Beterbiev he needed to defend his belt against a designated challenger. Callum Smith earned that role, marking Beterbiev's 20th fight. Smith, having fought thrice in North America, looks to make a bold first appearance on Canadian soil.

Securing this bout wasn't straightforward, as initial negotiations fell through until Top Rank won the purse bid, making the fight a reality. Fans have eagerly awaited this clash of the titans.

Originally slated for August last year, the fight was postponed due to a bone injury in Beterbiev’s jaw requiring surgery. This delay heightens the anticipation, especially considering recent talks about a potential match with Dmitry Bivol in Saudi Arabia later this year.

Beterbiev is the unquestionable favorite heading into this bout, though discussions of his next fight after Smith might be seen as a slight to Smith's team. Smith’s tactical acumen and these developments fuel his resolve to disrupt expectations.

Artur Beterbiev is revered as an elite puncher, his career remains unblemished with 19 knockouts in 19 fights, showing just how formidable he is in the ring.

As an outstanding amateur in Russia, Beterbiev earned both European and World Championship gold medals. The Olympic gold eluded him due to a controversial defeat by Zhang Xiaoping in the 2008 Olympics, where Xiaoping eventually clinched gold.

In 2012, during the London Olympics, Beterbiev was outboxed by Oleksandr Usyk. Losing to Usyk was no dishonor; Usyk has consistently proven his prowess, remaining unbeaten in 21 pro bouts across various weight classes.

Beterbiev's decision to turn professional in Canada has proven shrewd over the years. Winning his debut pro fight in July 2013, he's never looked back. Although he’s been sparingly fighting (just four bouts since October 2019), each encounter is eagerly anticipated for its excitement.

Hailing from Liverpool, Callum Smith embodies the resilient underdog spirit of his city, often underestimated yet known for tenacity. Coming from a family of boxers, competing in the ring is in his blood, with his three older brothers also involved in the sport.

Smith isn’t a stranger to championship status, having held the WBA super middleweight title from 2018 until his sole loss to Canelo Alvarez in 2020. With 29 victories in 30 fights, including 21 knockouts, his record is noteworthy.

Smith possesses notable height and reach advantages over Beterbiev, being three inches taller and with a reach five inches greater than the champion’s. Utilizing these could be crucial to challenging Beterbiev, renowned for his punching prowess.

Whether Smith can get close enough to Beterbiev to land impactful shots is uncertain, considering Beterbiev’s knack for seizing opportunities with precision. Smith’s youth compared to the seasoned champion might offer an edge, but is it enough for a sensational upset in Quebec?

An electrifying undercard is necessary for this stellar main event. It's a prime opportunity for emerging Canadian boxers to display their skills, with the undercard likely generating buzz that lingers long after the final bell.

Both the second and third-tier matches feature standout Australian talents and another title fight that promises entertainment. Early bouts could set the stage for future stars, as when Beterbiev was on the undercard a decade ago. This event may even become a nostalgic 'remember when' night in years to come.

Jason Moloney vs Saul Sanchez

The featured undercard match will showcase the WBO Bantamweight title bout, with Australian fighter Moloney, who secured the title in May against Vincent Astrolabio, boasting a career tally of 26-2, including 19 knockouts.

Sanchez, 26, has a matching record of 20 wins and only two losses. With both fighters sharing similar height and reach, the sidelining factors will be minimal, making for a tightly contested bout.

Bookmakers favor Moloney for a successful title defense, although he’s the least favored among the evening’s trio of headliners. Given Moloney’s last four fights and two of Sanchez's recent three have gone to decision, expect a drawn-out match. For betting aficionados, picking Moloney by decision seems a wise choice.

Christian Mbilli vs Rohan Murdock

The France versus Australia clash sees Mbilli arriving undefeated with a 25-0 record, bagging 21 knockouts. Murdock, 27-2 with 19 KOs, continues to demonstrate formidable success.

Having fought 13 times in Canada, Mbilli regards it as a second home, currently ranked among the top super-middleweights, and his experience in Quebec is an asset.

Murdock's familiarity with fighting outside Australia is limited, having ventured abroad thrice, including a loss in Manchester. With a contrasting style compared to Mbilli’s previous opponents, early rounds may require adjustments from Mbilli.

While Murdock, a tough adversary on his home turf, faces a daunting debut in Canada against a yet undefeated Mbilli, an upset seems unlikely. Mbilli is expected to extend his streak to 26-0 confidently.

With the fight taking place at home, Beterbiev carries the weight of expectation. Though most of his noteworthy fights have occurred abroad, with 10 out of his initial 11 in Quebec, he's only had one since overcoming Marcus Browne in December 2021.

Beterbiev holds a record of successes over British adversaries, notably stopping Anthony Yarde at Wembley Arena in eight rounds back in January 2023 during his last ring appearance.

Smith has expressed eagerness for the bout and acknowledges the chance to disturb the status quo. His promoter, Eddie Hearn, has been stirring the pot, comparing Smith to Callum Johnson, who knocked Beterbiev down in 2018 before succumbing in defeat. Hearn's verbosity is well-known!

The main factor against Beterbiev is his upcoming 39th birthday, while Smith is a youthful 33. With greater height and significant reach, Smith might pose more of a challenge than anticipated.

In the early stages of Beterbiev's career, he was known for his swift victories, with only one of his initial eleven bouts extending beyond the fourth round. However, in his eight most recent matches, five have lasted until at least the eighth round. While boxing more formidable opponents due to his championship status, one might question if Eddie Hearn's concerns about Beterbiev's age and physical hurdles playing a role in his future performance are valid.

Despite signs that Beterbiev may face tougher challenges, our belief is that he will ultimately triumph. Recent bouts indicate a likelihood of the fight edging closer to the 12-round maximum. Beterbiev must stay cautious of Smith's reach but possesses the skill to overcome the British contender when necessary. Betting on Beterbiev to secure victory between rounds 7 to 12 might not yield a huge payout, but it seems like a sensible perspective on a match bound to set Quebec City alight.