After suffering a bone infection that needed surgery, Artur Beterbiev will have to wait for his next defense of the unified light-heavyweight title.
The Canada-adopted Russian was due to face British star Smith on August 19. However, the injury was so severe that Beterbiev could no longer delay a corrective procedure.
Top Rank and Eye of the Tiger released a joint statement confirming Beterbiev vs Smith would still go ahead after a delay.
Artur Beterbiev suffers an injury postponing Callum Smith fight
“WBC/WBO/IBF light heavyweight world champion Artur Beterbiev’s title defense against former super middleweight world champion Callum Smith is delayed. Initially scheduled for Saturday, August 19, at Videotron Centre in Quebec City, Canada, it has been postponed due to a bone infection in Beterbiev’s jaw.
“He underwent surgery earlier today [Sunday] in Montreal, Canada.
“Promoted by Eye of the Tiger and Top Rank, in association with Matchroom Boxing, information regarding a rescheduled date will be announced in due course,” read the statement.
Beterbiev [19-0, 19 KOs] resides in Montreal. He is boxing’s only world champion with a one hundred percent knockout ratio.
Smith [29-1, 21 KOs], the WBC’s mandatory challenger, has won two bouts by stoppage since dropping a decision in a 2020 title unification fight against Canelo Alvarez.
World Boxing News understands dates in September and October are currently being considered by both teams.
WBC News
In other WBC news, boxing returns to The Colosseum Arena. For decades, the Arena Colosseum, also known as the “Embudo de Perú 77,” hosted high-quality boxing.
It has opened its doors, arms, and heart as a talent cradle to the best prospects in Mexican boxing for more than 45 years, week after week.
This historic venue hosted thrilling fights due to its unique architecture, allowing attendees to enjoy the actions fully—a panoramic view.
A few weeks ago, during a WBC press conference announcing the start of efforts to return boxing to this majestically historic arena. Today, after eight years, we can proudly announce that BOXING RETURNS TO THE COLOSSEUM ARENA in the coming week.
The former WBC super flyweight world champion, Carlos Cuadras, will star in this historic card. It occurs Friday, August 4, at the Arena Coliseo, located in the downtown area of Mexico City.
The World Boxing Council recognizes, lauds, and applauds the efforts of Producciones Joaco Arvizu in presenting this event. This includes experienced fighters and new prospects looking to break into professional boxing.
See you next Friday, August 4. Buy your tickets at ticketmaster.
