I wish Callum all the luck in the world.. and he’s going to need it
WHAT an opportunity for British and Commonwealth light heavyweight champion Callum Johnson, if that’s the right word.
Artur Beterbiev (right), his opponent in Chicago tonight, is so formidable he could not get a taker for his IBF light heavyweight mandatory.
Since both share the same promoter, Eddie Hearn, it was a straightforward fight to make. Besides, as tough as the prospect is, no fighter worth his salt would turn down the chance to fight for a world title.
Amateur status for Johnson (above) peaked with Commonwealth gold. His professional career seemed to take off with his Commonwealth success over Willbeforce Shihepo two years ago.
But the subsequent death of his father and injury stole his momentum.
His return against Frank Buglioni in March lasted less than a round, Johnson’s power blasting his opponent out of the contest and his name up the IBF rankings.
Johnson is a straight up-and-down attacking fighter. He comes at you with a sharp jab followed by an overhand right. He also hits well to the body with the left hook. Johnson does not like dancing around – but he can fight going backwards, always looking for the short, chopping, righthand counter as his opponent comes forward. He won’t have to wait long for that. Like Ukraine machines Vasyl Lomachenko at lightweight and Oleksandr Usyk at cruiser, Beterbiev had a long and successful amateur career winning European and world golds in a Russian vest. He is a classic seek-and-destroy merchant, freakishly strong with a 100 per cent knockout record in his 12 pro contests.
Johnson is not going to bring anything Beterbiev has not met before.
The reverse is not the case. Johnson has not met anybody like this bloke.
Now resident in Montreal, Beterbiev is keen to advance his career in the West and make some serious dough.
I’m pleased for Johnson and wish him all the luck in the world. He’s almost certainly going to need it. Follow Barry on Twitter at @ClonesCyclone @McGuigans_Gym @CyclonePromo