
USA: Bivol prepares to defend WBA light-heavyweight title against Smith
WBA world light-heavyweight title holder Russian boxer Dmitry Bivol worked out in Los Angeles on Wednesday, as part of his preparation for the fight against American Joe Smith Jr.
"Smith has a good stamina and he can use it, moving forward. He is a strong fighter. In all the fights, he moves forward, tries to push his rival down," Bivol told reporters after the training.
The boxer also noted that Smith, who held the regional WBC International light heavyweight title from 2016 to 2017, has "a powerful strike," which is one of the most important qualities in boxing.
Bivol concluded by saying “I will try to keep the WBA world champion title in Russia, in St. Petersburg. Thank you for your support, I feel it constantly and it helps me. Thank you."
The fight is set to take place on March 9 at the Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York.
Bivol will make his fifth title defense.

WBA world light-heavyweight title holder Russian boxer Dmitry Bivol worked out in Los Angeles on Wednesday, as part of his preparation for the fight against American Joe Smith Jr.
"Smith has a good stamina and he can use it, moving forward. He is a strong fighter. In all the fights, he moves forward, tries to push his rival down," Bivol told reporters after the training.
The boxer also noted that Smith, who held the regional WBC International light heavyweight title from 2016 to 2017, has "a powerful strike," which is one of the most important qualities in boxing.
Bivol concluded by saying “I will try to keep the WBA world champion title in Russia, in St. Petersburg. Thank you for your support, I feel it constantly and it helps me. Thank you."
The fight is set to take place on March 9 at the Turning Stone Resort and Casino in Verona, New York.
Bivol will make his fifth title defense.