CALLUM SMITH JOINS WORLD BOXING SUPER SERIES

British super middleweight Callum Smith has been officially confirmed as the latest entrant into the World Boxing Super Series elimination tournament.

The unbeaten Smith, who is rated No. 5 by THE RING at 168 pounds, joins WBA titleholder George Groves, former world titleholder Juergen Braehmer, as well as undefeated contenders Erik Skoglund and Jamie Cox. The remaining three spots will be announced imminently.

“I am thrilled to participate in the World Boxing Super Series,” said Smith (22-0, 17 knockouts). “There is so much at stake – the Muhammad Ali Trophy as well as a potential domestic showdown with George Groves in the final. This tournament is very exciting for boxing and I am thrilled to be a part of it.”

Smith’s promoter Eddie Hears said, “It’s been a very frustrating period for Callum but now we have clarity and something he can really get his teeth into. He is a technically excellent fighter with huge power who we believe has all the attributes to become a world champion.”

Smith is currently on his way to Monaco for the “Draft Gala” which takes place on Saturday (11:00 p.m local, 05.00 p.m. ET). During a live TV show, the top four seeds, who will be set by the Comosa Board once the line-up has been completed, will select their opponents from the unseeded boxers. The event will be broadcast in multiple territories and will also be streamed live on the World Boxing Super Series website.

Smith had originally been scheduled to face Anthony Dirrell for the vacant WBC title in Los Angeles in September. That bout falling apart left the path clear for the hard-hitting Englishman to join this attractive tournament format which is garnering plenty of attention worldwide.

The super middleweight and cruiserweight tournaments will commence in September.