Anthony Yarde got to witness Artur Beterbiev’s terrifying punch before their January game, despite being served.
The pair faced off for the first time since it was announced that the Russian would defend his unified light heavyweight belt against the man from London. The match is scheduled for January 28 at Wembley Arena, and marks Yarde’s second attempt at the world title having failed to Sergey Kovalev in 2019.
Since then, the 31-year-old from London has had five wins and one loss against Lyndon Arthur – although he corrected that in an immediate rematch.
Beterbiev last fought in June of this year, stopping tough Joe Smith Jr in the second round. It brings his knockouts to 18. He has never ended a fight any other way.
It was a respect, but Beterbiev broke his smile for a second to impose his authority, slamming his hand on the table. As for Yarde, he just smiled.
A SLAM on the magnetic table @ABeterbiev @mranthonyyarde facing Betterbiev on January 28 pic.twitter.com/IusLf6eiSO
– Social boxing (@boxing_social) December 5, 2022
‘The Beast from the East’ knows what he must face against the undefeated Beterbiev.
“Since I started boxing, I haven’t been out of the gym for more than a week. Beterbiev has had more than 200 amateur and 18 professional matches, but I will be sharp and focused.”
“In the light-heavyweight division, he is nothing but a ball of destruction, taking down every opponent so far. He’s very strong but I feel like I’m faster and with age I’m fresher, but in terms of experience I’m less than him.”
As for Beterbiev, he’s praising but confident – somewhat like the fact that he acted as the away boxer in this match despite being the champion.
“Anthony Yarde is a great fighter, he is strong – he is a bodybuilder. I respect him and respect all my opponents… get ready.”
The fight represents some welcome movement within a talented division. The winner will face a mandatory challenge in Callum Smithalthough it may be possible to open negotiations with Dmitry Bivol to set up an undisputed match first.
