Josh Kelly is Ready for Liam Smith Challenge

Josh Kelly prepares to face Liam Smith on the undercard of the Anthony Joshua vs. Daniel Dubois event at Wembley Stadium. Kelly is described as a "unique talent" by his trainer Adam Booth, but he must prove himself against the experienced former champion Smith.

Kelly remains on a positive trajectory, having won every fight since his tough 2021 loss to David Avanesyan. His impressive British title victory over Troy Williamson earlier showcased this progress. However, the shadow of the Avanesyan defeat continues to linger, and Kelly aims to lay those concerns to rest on September 21.

Liam Smith is a former super-welterweight world champion, known for his fights against top-tier opponents such as Canelo Alvarez. His recent battles with Chris Eubank Jr. included both a win and a loss. Smith will apply aggressive pressure, making it crucial for Kelly to have addressed any flaws in his boxing skills.

Despite the challenges posed by Smith, Booth believes Kelly is prepared. "Josh is in his prime," Booth stated. He emphasized the importance of Kelly’s mental growth over the past two and half years. Those years have allowed Kelly to learn about himself and confront personal challenges.

Booth recalled the first day Kelly stepped into his gym six and a half years ago. He sparred with notable fighters such as Billy Joe Saunders and Andy Lee, showing an early sign of potential. According to Booth, Kelly's maturity and understanding caught up with his skills and led to his current readiness.

Although Kelly has never fought above super-welterweight, Smith’s recent bouts saw him competing at middleweight. However, Booth reassured that Kelly will not face significant disadvantages in size or strength. "Josh is a very big 154lbs fighter," he noted. He also indicated that Smith, while tough and experienced from his middleweight appearances, will present only a slight edge in weight.

"Expect surprise" was Booth’s message about the match-up. He argues that the difference in their weights will be minimal, making it an even contest. Booth anticipates that when the fight begins, viewers may notice that Kelly appears bigger in the ring.

Although Kelly has been known as a stylist rather than a destructive force, Booth believes this fight can change perceptions. He stated, "You’re going to see much more." He anticipates a profound evolution in Kelly's style since the Troy Williamson fight.

Booth described Kelly's performance in the previous fight as a defensive masterclass. However, he insists that Kelly is now far more dangerous. A noticeable physical transformation since December 2022 only adds to this excitement.

Booth recognizes a newfound edge in Kelly's punches during training, predicting a continuation of this growth in the upcoming fight. "I think September 21 will just be more of a progression," he asserted. While he admits Kelly is not yet the finished product, he expressed enthusiasm for Kelly's current trajectory and consistent development.

Though Kelly’s past results haven't fully lived up to high expectations, Booth maintains optimism. "You know unique talent when you see it," he affirmed. He trusts that if Kelly fully realizes his potential, he will reach the highest levels of boxing.

Earlier, SSP reported that England clinches first test victory over Sri Lanka.