Smith faces Boschiero in ‘final chance’ IBF featherweight eliminator

Merseysider Stephen Smith has declared that his IBF featherweight title eliminator encounter with Italian Devis Boschiero is the final chance at finally claiming a world crown, with the winner earning a mandatory shot at glory.

Fighting on his home soil at the Liverpool Olympia, 30-year-old Smith will aim to end his tough path towards a world title, having so far claimed British and commonwealth belts in his career to date.

‘Swifty’ has been on the world title trail after impressive victories over Sergio Medina and Mauricio Munoz over the past year, but he is 7/2 with Coral to have his dreams shattered by Boschiero in this hometown clash.

Currently in possession of the IBF title is Puerto Rican competitor Jose Pedraza, who will defend the strap against American Edner Cherry next month, and Smith believes his latest bout will make or break dreams of challenging for that belt.

“I believe it is my only chance at a world title shot,” stated Smith. “That is how I am looking at it. I have been waiting for a while and this is the only chance I will get and I have to capitalise; it is now or never for me.

“It is the world title and a chance I have been craving. Whether it be Jose Pedraza or Edner Cherry I don’t really mind, I am not looking ahead of this fight because I have to win this tonight.

“If I win this fight then I am fighting for the World title; no politics, no negotiations, I am next in line and will fight for the World title. Wherever that be I don’t mind, I just want my chance. Given that I have home advantage in the final eliminator I can’t complain.”