Saturday 27 June 2015 11:25, UK
Paul Smith is adamant his brother and fellow super-middleweight Callum Smith has what it takes to go all the way and become world champion after seeing him battle to a points win over Christopher Rebrasse.
In a classic 'learning' fight, Smith was pushed all the way by the Frenchman in Liverpool but secured a 120-107, 118-110 and 118-110 decision from the judges to increase the chances of a clash with Rocky Fielding, who also impressed his home fans by beating Brian Vera with a second round stoppage.
Looking beyond that potential clash for the British title, Sky Sports pundit Paul Smith believes his youngest brother has all the tools to achieve glory at world level.
He said: "I'm a big believer in Callum. I felt he won every round apart from the last and was always in control of a very tough, durable, game and capable opponent.
"The sky's the limit for the kid because he's a quality fighter. I know I'm going to exaggerate and get carried away but I see what he does in the gym and what he's got in his arsenal, in his make-up.
I know I'm going to exaggerate and get carried away but I see what he does in the gym and what he's got in his arsenal, in his make-up.
"I fell short at the final hurdle and I can't see him doing it. The division is going to change by the time he gets to the top too - a few of the champions may change.
"Carl Froch is probably going to retire, Andre Ward may move up to light-heavyweight, Badou Jack and George Groves will fight for the title, Arthur Abraham may not hang around much longer and then you've got James DeGale as IBF champion.
"It could be blown wide open again."
Callum Smith has already spoken openly of his desire to fight domestic rival George Groves, providing the Londoner relieves Badou Jack of his WBC super-middleweight belt later this year.
