British super-middleweight Callum Smith has said that he believes he is gaining the experience that will help him become a world champion in 2016.
On Friday night, Smith overcame the challenge of former European champion Christopher Rebrasse, and although he couldn't stop the Frenchman, the Merseyside hitter believes that going the distance was more beneficial for his career.
The 25-year-old is quoted by Sky Sports News as saying: "I enjoy the early knockouts but if I am going to progress and be a world champion, I need fights like this. This fight and the Sjekloca fight were perfect for my career.
"I feel as though I am improving all the time and that all I need is experience, and I'm gaining that."
The victory sees Smith extend his professional record to 17 successive wins.
