Liverpool’s super-middleweight contender, Callum Smith (18-0, 13ko) claimed the vacant British title in ferocious style last night with his blitzing of previously unbeaten Rocky Fielding, promising 2016 will be his year to claim a world title.
WBC #1, Smith, took less than a round to become the fourth of his family of fighting brothers to capture the coveted Lonsdale belt, and will be looking to follow hot on the world title winning heels of brother Liam, who recently captured WBO 154 lb honours.
“I’d be a liar if I said that I thought I’d take him out in one round,” Smith said post-fight. “He’s a good fighter and I’m delighted to be British champion. For the four of us to get it is something we’re very proud of.
“When I landed, I sort of jumped on him and it gave him a chance to get back into the fight. I’m still only young and I’m still learning. I’m doing everything right at the minute and I think 2016 is the year I can become a world champion,” he added.
They were sentiments shared by promoter Eddie Hearn, who said.
“I felt because these guys hadn’t been on this kind of stage before that they might have nerves but they just went at it.”
“I believe Callum Smith will go on and win world championships.
“We’ve got Martin Murray challenging [Abraham, WBO], James DeGale as the IBF champion and George Groves coming back, which is a fight we’ve always wanted as well. This is big times for Callum Smith in the world division,” he added.
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