Callum Smith – to open World Boxing Super Series on September 16th in

Callum Smith will meet Erik Skoglund in the 1st bout of the World Boxing Super Series on September 16th in Liverpool, , according to Dan Rafael of espn.com.

“A ring is a ring no matter where it is but, of course, I’m happy to be fighting in Liverpool,” Smith said. “‘This is my home, and this is where all my best performances as a professional have been. I like fighting in Liverpool, and with the crowd behind me, I will have an added advantage on Sept. 16.

“There are no easy fights in this tournament. It’s the best fighting the best, but I believe I made the right decision in Monte Carlo. That’s not to say Skoglund is not a good fighter. I think he is a very good fighter. His record speaks for itself, but I think stylistically, he was the right choice for me. It will be a tough test. On paper, Skoglund is probably the best fighter I’ve ever faced, and I will need to be at my best to beat him. But every time I’ve been up against it in my career and every time there’s been that fear factor, it’s brought out the best in me and I’m hoping for the same on Sept. 16.”

“This is a huge opportunity for me to prove myself at the highest level,” Skoglund said. “Callum Smith is a top-level fighter and one of the tournament favorites. This is what the World Boxing Super Series is all about — the best fighting the best. That’s why I entered, and that’s why I’m really looking forward to this fight. “For me, it’s no problem fighting in Liverpool. Of course, I am always thankful for the opportunity to fight in front of my fans in , but I’m happy not having that pressure on my shoulders for this fight, and I will enjoy being the underdog for once.”