The BoxRec summer interviews - Paul Smith
As we all know, summer is a quiet time for British boxing fans. In terms of shows, there is literally nothing to report on. That doesn't mean we stop talking about the fight game though.
Some of us get our fix by increasing our time spent on the forums, talking more and more about less and less. Our fellow posters include quite a few pros these days so I thought I'd send a few of them the same ten questions and see what transpires.
We kick off with forum regular and Liverpool's British super-middleweight champion, Paul 'Smigga' Smith.
What has been the highlight of your career this season?
Winning and defending the British title. It has been a goal of mine since I started boxing.
Any low points?
Not fighting as regular as I should. Injury, TV and waiting for purse bids, etc meant I only boxed twice.
What do you realistically aim to achieve in the next year?
Lonsdale belt outright, EBU title and world title challenge!
Who would you most like to fight next season and why?
Brian Magee, Dimitri Sartison and or Robert Steiglitz. EBU, WBA and WBO titles. I feel I could beat all three and would love the titles that they have.
Is there anything you plan to focus on in training after the summer?
I've been doing a lot of strength work over the last year and that will continue. I will be working hard on that over the summer.
Who do you view (other than yourself!) as the best British boxer in your division?
Carl Froch domestically and Andre Ward on the world scene.
Outside of your division, name one current British boxer you hold in high regard and explain why you rate them.
Obviously my brothers Stephen and Liam. Stephen has the fight he has been asking for in September against John Simpson and it is a fight that all those around Stephen are relishing. We have gret faith in his ability, fitness and strength.
What rule change(s), if any, would you like the BBBofC to introduce?
It has just happened, the cuts ruling. I'm happy with that.
Are you a fan of Prizefighter or not? Either way, how would you improve it?
I was but the novelty has worn off for me now. It has become a bit tedious and the standard has dropped.
Why do you post on the BoxRec forum?
I post because like most I am a boxing fan. I do wonder why sometimes when the odd few idiots get going! In general, the forum is a good one and the best one around for me.
If you could name one BoxRec poster you would like to share a ring with, who would it be and why?
There's a few trust me but it's best left unsaid! I couldn't sit here saying "oh no I don't mind stick" because I do. I enjoy the praise like any other fighter, so criticism is also fine and accepted if justified. The abuse and personal insults are out of order though, and I wouldn't do it to someone myself. I believe I would criticise anyone to their face but if I was to insult someone then I should expect a smack in the mouth or at least an insult in return. So others should be like that on the forums! :-)
