Callum Smith is set to announce his opponent for the Anthony Joshua v Andy Ruiz Jr. show imminently, World Boxing News understands.
After what’s been a long search, the Liverpool man is ready to settle on a clash with French former world champion Hassan N’Dam N’Jikam.
N’Dam recently defeated Smith’s compatriot Martin Murray at middleweight. The 35 year-old is primed to head back up to super-middleweight for a world title shot.
Smith currently holds the WBA and WBC Diamond straps on the back of his success in the World Boxing Super Series.
‘Mundo’ was linked to facing mandatory challenger John Ryder. But with ‘The Gorilla’ participating in the Canelo v Jacobs undercard on this weekend, Smith had to look elsewhere.
It’s not the big fight Smith craves, although the contest keeps the WBSS winner on the Joshua undercard with just a few weeks remaining.
As for Kell Brook, ‘The Special One’ is still searching for what will only be a stay-busy foe due to time constraints.
Brook was hoping to land Amir Khan in the spring. Khan opted to fight Terence Crawford, losing in six rounds.
That left the Sheffield man treading water. And unless Brook can secure an opponent soon, he may well drop off the card entirely.
Joshua Buatsi and Josh Kelly, two other Matchroom prospects on the New York event, are also yet to formally have their bouts set.
Full Anthony Josuha v Andy Ruiz Jr. bill:
Saturday 1, June 2019 – Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
12 – heavyweight
Anthony Joshua v Andy Ruiz Jr 32 1 0
International Boxing Federation World Heavyweight Title
International Boxing Organization World Heavyweight Title
World Boxing Association Super World Heavyweight Title
World Boxing Organisation World Heavyweight Title
12 – super flyweight
Kal Yafai v Norbelto Jimenez
World Boxing Association World Super Flyweight Title
12 – super middleweight
Callum Smith v Hassan N’Dam
World Boxing Association Super World Super Middleweight Title
12 – lightweight
Katie Taylor v Delfine Persoon
International Boxing Federation World Female Lightweight Title
World Boxing Association World Female Lightweight Title
World Boxing Council World Female Lightweight Title
WBO World Female Lightweight Title
10 – super lightweight
Chris Algieri v Tommy Coyle
10 – super welterweight
Kell Brook v TBA
10 – light heavyweight
Joshua Buatsi v TBA
10 – welterweight
Josh Kelly v TBA
4 – middleweight
Austin Williams v TBA
