Liam Smith vs. Josh Kelly: A Pivotal Moment in Boxing

Liam Smith’s forthcoming bout against Josh Kelly on September 21 at Wembley Stadium is anticipated as a critical juncture in both fighters’ careers. The match will be part of an undercard event headlined by the IBF heavyweight title clash between Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois. For Smith, aged 36, this fight could be a defining moment, potentially determining the future of his illustrious career.

Smith’s Career Crossroads

Liam Smith enters this bout with a distinguished record, yet the shadow of his recent defeat looms large. Following a career-high victory against Chris Eubank Jr., which saw him halt Eubank Jr. and secure his most notable win, Smith faced a setback. The subsequent rematch in September 2023 ended in a one-sided loss, exacerbated by a back injury. This injury not only affected his performance but also raised concerns about his future in the sport.

Joe McNally, Smith’s trainer, has expressed that this fight could be Smith’s last, given the significant implications of a potential defeat. McNally’s comments reveal a deep understanding of the stakes involved: “I’d love it to be,” he told BoxingScene, reflecting on the possibility of this fight being Smith’s swan song. He further commented on Smith’s lingering issues from the Eubank bout, “I know that Eubank fight burns him real bad, and I do think that if he does an impressive job on Josh Kelly and he’s injury-free, I know he’ll love that trilogy for him.”

Kelly’s Strategic Miscalculation?

Josh Kelly, at 30 and moving up to middleweight for the first time, has been viewed by many as a significant challenge for Smith. McNally believes Kelly has misjudged the situation by pursuing Smith so eagerly, despite Kelly’s own transition to a higher weight class. The trainer’s insight into Kelly’s approach underscores a perception that Kelly and his team may have underestimated Smith’s resilience and experience.

“I wanted him to pull out of the Eubank fight – he wasn’t ready,” McNally revealed. This statement highlights McNally’s concerns about Smith’s readiness and the pressures of high-stakes prizefighting. Despite these challenges, Smith’s return to the ring against Kelly is seen as a critical test of his capabilities and readiness to compete at the highest levels.

Kelly’s Preparation and Challenges

Kelly’s decision to fight Smith, despite previously targeting a bout with James Metcalfe, suggests a strategic shift influenced by Smith’s recent performance against Eubank Jr. McNally pointed out this tactical decision, noting that Kelly’s team opted to fight Smith after Metcalfe accepted a challenge. “Liam was still going through his injury off the Eubank fight when he had a phone call off one of their team saying, ‘Will you fight Josh Kelly in five weeks – name your price?’” McNally explained.

Kelly’s preparation has been questioned, particularly in relation to his suitability at 160lbs. McNally remains sceptical about Kelly’s ability to handle the increased weight and the demands of a 12-round fight against an experienced opponent like Smith. “Josh Kelly pulled out – to not fight James Metcalfe,” he noted, suggesting that Kelly’s move up in weight may pose unforeseen challenges.

Smith’s Strengths and Potential Outcome

McNally’s analysis of Smith’s strengths against Kelly indicates a belief in Smith’s superior skills and resilience. He expressed confidence that Smith, if injury-free and well-prepared, would be a formidable opponent for Kelly. “If Liam Smith is on it – and he is on it – I expect him to go through him like a knife through butter,” McNally asserted.

The trainer’s faith in Smith’s ability to overcome Kelly highlights a broader confidence in Smith’s enduring prowess. Despite the setback against Eubank Jr., McNally believes that Smith’s performance in training and his proven track record make him a significant threat to Kelly.

As the fight approaches, the outcome of Smith vs. Kelly will be closely scrutinised. For Smith, a victory could lead to a highly anticipated third bout with Eubank Jr., while a loss might signal the end of a distinguished career. For Kelly, the match represents an opportunity to prove his capabilities at a higher weight class and potentially establish himself as a leading contender.