Light-heavyweight contenders Callum Smith and Anthony Yarde have not yet reached a deal for a potential fight. Meanwhile, WBC world champion David Benavidez is still searching for his next opponent.
Speculation surrounding a domestic matchup between Smith and Yarde has increased in recent weeks, with some reports indicating the pair might compete in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this August.
However, while this intriguing bout is certainly being explored, both fighters appear to be a considerable distance from finalizing the terms.
Callum Smith, with a professional record of 31 wins, 2 losses, and 22 knockouts, has largely established himself as a leading contender at 175 pounds following his unanimous decision victory over Joshua Buatsi in February.
Despite entering that showdown as a slight underdog, the former world champion persevered and outlasted his previously undefeated opponent in a demanding 12-round battle.
In winning, `Mundo` successfully claimed Buatsi’s WBO interim strap. However, due to the anticipated trilogy fight between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev later this year, Smith must now wait longer for his mandatory title shot opportunity.
Could David Benavidez Be Next for Callum Smith?
David Benavidez, undefeated with 30 wins and 24 knockouts, presents another possible option for Smith. Benavidez was recently elevated from interim to full WBC champion and requires a challenger.
Even though Smith could potentially secure a second shot at light-heavyweight world honors against Benavidez, it seems that Anthony Yarde, holding a record of 27 wins, 3 losses, and 24 knockouts, has emerged as a more probable opponent.
The 33-year-old Yarde is coming off an uninspiring points victory over Lyndon Arthur, which followed a string of less significant fights after his stoppage defeat to Beterbiev in 2023.
Nevertheless, a clash between Smith and Yarde remains appealing. Callum Smith`s promoter, Frank Smith of Matchroom Boxing, has highlighted this matchup as a realistic possibility.
