Smith Confident 'Second Time Lucky' Versus Abraham

As previously reported on BoxingScene.com, Liverpool’s Paul “Real Gone Kid” will get another bite at the world title cherry when he meets WBO Super middleweight titlist Arthur Abraham, 41-4 (28), at Berlin’s O2 World Arena on  February 21st .  The fight will be shown live  on SAT 1 in Germany and Sky Sports here in the U.K.   

Smith, 32, pushed the 34-year-old Armenia-born, Germany-based belt-holder hard during their first fight in Kiel, Germany, but his effort was not reflected on the widely lopsided scorecards of 111-117, 109-119 and 111-117—leading to calls for a return match.   

The WBO refused to make the current British title-holder the mandatory for their title despite ruling that the scoring was poor, opting instead to rank him at number four and suggesting that he would have to go down the voluntary route if he wanted to secure a rematch.

Eddie Hearn and Kalle Sauerland (Smith and Abraham’s promoters) did just that, working out a mutually acceptable deal for the rematch.

"It's the rematch for the title—it's called Judgement Day," said Smith, 35-4 (20), when talking to  Sky Sports News .  "It was a close fight, I believe I won it 7-5.  I wouldn't have complained with six all, as we were in Germany, but the scoring was controversial so I know it'll be scrutinised this time.  It's going to be a great fight.  To be fair, Arthur was true to his word (of a rematch), but told me I'll be sorry what I wished for—he said he'll knock me out—although, at 34, I don't think he can.  I'll be better this time."

He added: "I can never give Arthur the fight (watching it back).  There's a few 'Should haves' that I can get right this time.  My confidence's improved.  I know I can handle myself at world-level.  Fighting away from home seems to be a bit better for me, there's a lot less pressure.  For me, the pressure's on him as he's the champion and has to perform."

"I've always said it's one fight at a time," he said when asked who would be next should he win. "I leave all that to Eddie Hearn.  I'll fight anyone." 

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