Arthur Beterbiev (17-0, 17 KOs) stopped Marcus Brown in the ninth round in his last fight and defended the WBC and IBF belts. If Joe Smith does his job as well, their duel could take place for three titles in 175. Smith and Beterbiev are under contract with Top Rank, a promotional organization.
“I want the biggest rivals and the biggest fights. I want to unite with Beterbiev. Of course, I focus on Johnson because he is a tough guy, but after him I want Beterbiev, and then a rematch with Bivol,” said Smith Jr.