Boxing News
‘When He Hits Guys They Wake Up Somewhere Else’: Teddy Atlas Talks Artur Beterbiev vs. Callum Smith
‘When He Hits Guys They Wake Up Somewhere Else’: Teddy Atlas Talks Artur Beterbiev vs. Callum Smith
On Saturday, January 13, at the Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Callum Smith (29-1, 21 KOs) will clash with Artur Beterbiev (19-0, 19 KOs) for the Russian-born fighter’s IBF, WBC and WBO world light heavyweight titles. As we enter fight week, BFW have bought you everything you need to know, including a breakdown of the fight by numbers and our prediction for this light heavyweight bout. Legendary boxing trainer and fight commentator Teddy Atlas has also spoken about the upcoming contest on the big fight preview for ProBox TV.
Teddy Atlas Speaks on Artur Beterbiev vs. Callum Smith
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Teddy Atlas Speaks on Power of Beterbiev
A growing swell of support is gathering for Smith as he prepares to take on Beterbiev in Canada. Eddie Hearn is one of many who have backed the British fighter to win by KO. Despite these predictions, some appear to be looking past how dangerous the Russian-born fighter is.
The Montreal resident has won all 19 professional contests by knockout, showcasing his devastating power. Despite having difficulties against Callum Johnson and Anthony Yarde, his ability to close the distance effectively before throwing spiteful combinations wore down both opponents. Speaking to ProBox TV, Atlas said: “When he hits guys they wake up somewhere else.”
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He continued to speak about Beterbiev and the dangers he brings, and referred to the Russian-born fighter as “Mr Doomsday,” and described him as having TNT in his hands. Atlas continued to talk about how effective Beterbiev is at closing the distance and working the body and head with great power. He went on to add Smith is a worthy opponent, but he needs to control the distance and use his reach advantage to great effect.
How Smith Can Cause the Upset
Smith will need to use his reach advantage and control the distance, not engaging too much. If he has to engage, he needs to pick his punches well and hit the body before getting back on the outside and working diligently behind his jab. Beterbiev is an expert at closing the distance, and the Liverpudlian fighter has to perform well behind that jab and dictate the fight. If he gets involved too much on the inside, it’s difficult to look past a Beterbiev stoppage win.
