“This is probably the biggest challenge of his career.” – Mark Ramsey

Artur Beterbiev will defend his IBF, WBC and WBO light heavyweight belts against Callum Smith on August 19 at the Videotron Center in Quebec.

In an interview with Jean-Charles Lajoie on Monday, Mark Ramsay noted that the Briton was perhaps the toughest opponent in the boxer’s career.

“This is probably the biggest challenge of his career. We’re talking about a guy like Oleksandr Gvozdyk who was also quite challenging. He came to beat Adonis Stephenson in Quebec. I see him more physically, maybe just as technically. He’s easily in the top 2.

Ramsey adds, however, that the fact that the fight is being presented in Quebec is a huge plus for Peterbiev.

“As Artur’s trainer, you can understand all the advantages of conducting the ceremony here. There is the support from the crowd, but there are also all the logistics. He’s happy, but he’s also conscious. We’ve traveled a lot in recent years. He knows how complicated boxing is outside, going to perform and winning Outside. He knows the advantage you can give us.”

The coach also refuses to believe that the end of the career is drawing near for his 38-year-old boxer.

“Right now, there’s no slowing down in the gym. We’re not seeing it in terms of metabolism and in terms of performance either. As long as it goes well, we’ll continue to drive with it.”

Eye of the Tiger Management development director believes many boxers can benefit from this international festival.

“This is excellent news. For the company, it’s something important and a new step. We’re really happy. To be honest, I think there’s no risk. Artur has reached a level of popularity that guarantees us some ticket sales. There’s also the fact that he will give great visibility to all the boxers in the company. In the long run, this is something that will pay off.”

Watch the interview in question in the video above.