Liam Smith Withdraws from Fight Against Josh Kelly: What’s Next in Boxing?
Liam Smith’s preparation for his upcoming bout with Josh Kelly has hit a significant snag. Reports indicate that Smith, 36, has been forced to withdraw from the fight due to a virus. This latest setback is another chapter in a series of misfortunes that have plagued the former world champion.
Smith’s Recent Struggles and Withdrawal
Smith, with a record of 33-4-1 and 20 knockouts, has not fought since his rematch with Chris Eubank Jr last September. That bout was a particularly bruising defeat for Smith, who was hampered by a combination of an ankle injury and back issues during training. These ailments compromised his preparation and ultimately his performance in the ring. Smith had previously been forced to delay the rematch due to what was described as a “minor” injury.
Despite these challenges, Smith’s resolve to return to form has been evident. However, the recent announcement that he has contracted a virus has dashed hopes of his return to the ring in the near future. This latest development adds to the growing list of obstacles that have hindered Smith’s career progression.
BREAKING: Liam Smith forced out of Josh Kelly showdown https://t.co/glf6ehbsRk
— Lance Pugmire (@pugboxing) September 13, 2024
Impact on the Fight Card and Kelly’s Next Move
With Smith out of the equation, the spotlight now shifts to Josh Kelly. Kelly, whose record stands at 15-1-1 with 8 knockouts, will remain on the card but will face a yet-to-be-announced replacement. This change is significant as it not only affects Kelly’s preparation but also the dynamics of the fight night.
The event, scheduled for September 21st at Wembley, is part of the Riyadh Season and features a stellar lineup beyond the Smith-Kelly bout. The main event will see Daniel Dubois defending his IBF heavyweight title against former champion Anthony Joshua. Additionally, Anthony Cacace will make his first super featherweight title defence against Josh Warrington, while Willy Hutchinson will challenge Joshua Buatsi for the interim WBO light heavyweight belt.
What’s Next for Liam Smith?
Liam Smith’s withdrawal raises questions about his future in boxing. Given the repeated setbacks, it’s crucial for Smith to reassess his training and recovery strategies to ensure he can return to peak performance. The potential re-booking of the fight with Kelly remains a possibility, but it will depend on Smith’s recovery and the scheduling of future bouts.
Smith’s career, once marked by promise and notable victories, has recently been marred by injuries and inconsistencies. For a fighter of his calibre, overcoming these challenges and regaining form will be crucial in determining the next phase of his career. Fans and analysts will be keenly observing how Smith navigates these hurdles and whether he can return to the level that earned him his title.
Kelly’s Path Forward
Josh Kelly’s situation, while disrupted, presents an opportunity for him to showcase his skills against a different opponent. The change in opponent may require adjustments in Kelly’s training camp, but it also provides him with a chance to demonstrate his versatility and adaptability in the ring.
For Kelly, remaining focused and prepared for a new challenger is essential. This adjustment will test his readiness and ability to adapt to different fighting styles. His performance in this fight could significantly impact his career trajectory and future matchups.
Looking Ahead to September 21st
The event at Wembley on September 21st remains a high-profile occasion in the boxing calendar. Despite the change in the Smith-Kelly bout, the night promises to deliver compelling action with major title fights on the line. Boxing enthusiasts will have much to look forward to as they witness top fighters like Daniel Dubois, Anthony Joshua, Anthony Cacace, and Josh Warrington in action.
As the boxing world continues to evolve, the challenges and triumphs of fighters like Liam Smith and Josh Kelly will remain central to the sport’s narrative. The outcome of these fights will shape the future landscape of boxing and influence the careers of those involved.
