Smith KOs Thompson in 7th to win vacant WBO 154lb world title

In another well matched contest, Liam Smith (20-0-1, 10ko’s) takes on recent ESPN Boxcino Tournament champion John Thompson (17-1, 6ko’s), again for the vacant WBO version of the light Welterweight belt.

Flanagan feels he has not had the credit he deserves since winning the WBO lightweight title in July and is upset that Sky Sports only rank him as the fifth best in the division in Britain.

“All those fighters are more than worthy of fighting for world titles, but I’m confident that I’m the best of the bunch”.

Although the Liverpudlian denies that being the first world champion in such an illustrious family would give him “bragging rights”, he is excited to establish himself at the forefront of the group’s achievements. But looking at both fights, I would say Zepeda is tougher.

When I go to the era of Prince Naseem Hamed, Joe Calzaghe, Nigel Benn and Steve Collins, they had been there and done it over a long period.

Smith fights as chief support on the Queensbury Promotions Terry Flanagan/Diego Magdaleno “World War III” card against Thompson, whose team has promised that Saturday’s clash will show up the “difference between an A and a B fighter”, claiming their man has been sparring the likes of Andre Ward and Errol Spence in preparation.

“It’s going to be nice”, he said. Flanagan followed the usual progression to the world title that most British fighters follow, as he has held English, British and European titles on his way up. Ward (28-0, 15 KOs) obviously has the résumé to warrant consideration, but a shoulder injury and promotional problems have limited him to two fights in the past three years.

“I could end up having a tough night on Saturday, anything can happen, that’s boxing”.

Gallagher was in confident form, with Smith aiming to become the second World Champion under Gallagher’s tutelage, with Scott Quigg the current WBA Super-Bantamweight champ.

It is a real big time for British boxing and tomorrow Liam Smith can join an elite club of British world champions.