Stephen Smith believes timing is perfect for his world title shot at IBF king Jose Pedraza in America
Tuesday 15 March 2016 23:04, UK
Stephen Smith is determined to make up for lost time when he finally challenges Jose Pedraza for the IBF super-featherweight title.
The 30-year-old Liverpudlian halted Devis Boschiero in a final eliminator for the IBF belt last September, but had to wait until this month for confirmation of a shot at Pedraza on April 16 in Connecticut.
Despite the drawn out negotiations, Smith insists he is ready to become a world champion after 23 wins in the professional ranks, with just the one defeat.
"I've waited a long time for this opportunity, but the timing couldn't be better," said Smith. "I'm excited to get the opportunity to win the world title live on Sky Sports in the UK and on Showtime in America.
"Pedraza is a quality fighter but I know I will do whatever is needed to become world champion on April 16 and I can't wait."
Irishman Patrick Hyland has received a shot at WBC featherweight champion Gary Russell Jr on the same bill at the Foxwoods Resort.
Hyland is making a big step-up against the American, who has been sidelined for over a year through injury, but has only lost to Vasyl Lomachenko.
"It means the world to me to be fighting for this title against a real champion like Gary Russell Jr," said Hyland.
"I think he's a great fighter who does everything well so I have to be at my best on fight night. But I know I can beat him and take that belt home to Ireland."
