Press Conference Notes: Artur Beterbiev Set to Defend Unified Light Heavyweight Crown against Callum Smith
Beterbiev-Smith and Christian Mbilli-Rohan Murdock will be broadcast live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ Saturday beginning at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT
Artur Beterbiev: “Another day, another bout! I’m as revved up for this one as I am for all my fights. Our prep? The usual – all in, no holding back.”
“I’ve got my game face on for this tussle. It’s great to have a fan squad in the stands, but hey, I’ve got bigger fish to fry right now.”
Callum Smith: “Just here on business, aiming to snag that world champ title once more. My team’s by my side, and that’s home enough for me. Feeling top-notch, both in the head and body, and ready to put on a show.”
“This is gonna be a thrill. He’s top-notch, with three belts to prove it. But I’ve got faith in me. Always have. On my best day, I reckon I can take on the world. And that’s no bluff.”
“Been upping my game big time with Buddy McGirt. Now’s my moment to shine as a champ in two divisions. I’ve got this golden chance coming up, and you bet I’m grabbing it with both hands.” “Cheer for me, boo me, doesn’t matter. I’ve got a mission, and it’s all about the guy in the other corner. Sure, cheers are nice, but no cheers? Still got the same job to do.”
Marc Ramsay (Beterbiev’s head trainer): “He’s a solid contender, the full package and top of the heap for good reason. But let’s not forget, Artur’s been in the ring game since he was knee-high to a grasshopper. He’s seen it all.”
“Kicking off camp in Russia? It’s our secret sauce. Been doing it for ages and it works like a charm. Gets him ready to hit the ground running, not starting from scratch.”
Buddy McGirt (Smith’s head trainer): “People don’t give him enough credit. He’s a dark horse, and come Saturday, he’s going to show the world his true colors.”
“His record? Can’t let that psych us out. We know what we’re up against – no illusions there. But fretting over it? That’s not our style. We’re ready for the challenge.”
