Callum Smith is Back: Could a Fight with Joshua Buatsi Be Next?

Callum Smith, the former super-middleweight champion, is making his highly anticipated return to the ring this Saturday in Birmingham. After a tough loss to Artur Beterbiev earlier this year, Smith is determined to prove he’s still a top contender at light heavyweight. His eight-round bout against Carlos Galvan is the first step in what could be an exciting comeback. With rumors swirling about a possible showdown with Joshua Buatsi in early 2025, fans are buzzing about what’s next for the Liverpool native.

Rebuilding After the Artur Beterbiev Loss

In January 2024, Callum Smith stepped into the ring with one of boxing’s most feared champions, Artur Beterbiev. It was a high-stakes fight for the unified light heavyweight title, but Smith came up short, getting stopped by the Russian powerhouse. Beterbiev has since solidified his dominance, defeating Dmitry Bivol to become the undisputed champion.

For Smith, the loss was a harsh reality check. After nearly 17 months out of the ring, he was clearly not at his best. But instead of hanging up his gloves, Smith is determined to bounce back stronger. His brother, Stephen Smith, a former world title challenger, put it bluntly: “You can’t go into a fight like that after so much time off. Callum knows that now. This fight is about getting his momentum back.”

Why This Saturday’s Fight Matters

This weekend’s fight isn’t just about getting a win—it’s about setting the stage for bigger things. Smith’s opponent, Carlos Galvan, brings a record of 20-14-2, with 19 of those wins coming by knockout. While Galvan isn’t considered a top-tier contender, his power and experience will still provide a valuable test.

Eddie Hearn, Smith’s promoter and the mastermind behind Matchroom Boxing, emphasized the importance of this fight. “This Saturday is all about getting a win and preparing for the big fights in 2025. Callum wants to win a world title at 175, but more importantly, he wants to be in big fights.”

This bout is Smith’s chance to shake off the ring rust, rebuild his confidence, and show the boxing world that he’s ready for the division’s elite.

Will We See Smith vs. Buatsi in 2025?

The biggest rumor circulating is a potential fight between Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi in February 2025. While no deal has been signed, the matchup seems likely—and it’s got boxing fans hyped.

For Smith, a win over Buatsi could fast-track him back to the top of the light heavyweight rankings. For Buatsi, currently the WBO interim champion, it’s a high-risk, high-reward opportunity to solidify his standing as a serious contender.

Even Eddie Hearn is stoking the flames of excitement. “It’s a great fight. Buatsi is exactly the kind of opponent Callum wants,” Hearn said.

With rumors of a Beterbiev-Bivol rematch brewing for early next year, Smith vs. Buatsi could headline its own major event. The fight offers both men a shot at bigger opportunities—and a shot at making serious money.

Callum Smith’s Road to Redemption

Callum Smith isn’t just fighting to win—he’s fighting to rebuild his legacy. After years of inactivity, he knows the key to success at light heavyweight is staying busy. His brother Stephen couldn’t agree more. “Callum with momentum is a scary prospect,” he said. “He’s been fighting just once a year for four years. If he can stay active, there’s no one he can’t beat.”

Saturday’s fight in Birmingham is the first step in a long road back to the top. Whether it’s Buatsi, Anthony Yarde, or another big name, Callum Smith is ready to take on all challengers. Boxing fans should keep their eyes on this comeback story. Smith has the talent, the power, and the determination to shake up the light heavyweight division—and he’s just getting started.