Boxing Result

In a captivating light heavyweight showdown, Callum Smith (31-2, 22 KOs) secured a unanimous decision victory over the previously undefeated Joshua Buatsi (19-1, 13 KOs) at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The judges' scorecards read 115-113, 116-112, and a surprisingly wide 119-110, all in favour of Smith.

Both British fighters engaged in a fierce battle from the opening bell, with Smith's experience and body attack proving to be the deciding factors. The Liverpool native consistently targeted Buatsi's midsection, wearing down his opponent as the fight progressed. Buatsi, known for his pressure and power, struggled to find his rhythm against Smith's calculated assault.

As the contest entered its later stages, Smith's conditioning shone through. Despite Buatsi's relentless pressure, Smith found a second wind in the championship rounds, hurting his opponent with powerful combinations to both head and body. The final round saw Smith unleash a barrage of punches that had Buatsi reeling, though the former Olympian's durability allowed him to hear the final bell.

This victory hands Buatsi his first professional loss and positions Smith for another world title opportunity. With the WBO Interim Light Heavyweight title in his possession, Smith has set himself up for a potential shot at the winner of the Artur Beterbiev vs Dmitry Bivol undisputed championship bout.

For Buatsi, this setback marks a crucial moment in his career. Despite the loss, his performance against a world-class opponent like Smith proves he belongs among the elite of the division. At 32 years old, Buatsi will undoubtedly look to rebound and work his way back into title contention.