Smith Jr. is a former Bivol opponent, and when speaking to The DAZN Boxing Show, believed his former rival was not a fighter which suited the Mexican's aggressive style. 

"I thought Bivol had a great chance to win the fight," Smith Jr. said. 

"Canelo is used to facing aggressive guys, constantly trying to knock them out and coming forward.

"Bivol is not that kind of guy, he’s going to pick his shots and move, I pictured the fight the way it went."

When Canelo decided to make the move to light heavyweight in an attempt to become a two-time champion at 175lbs, Smith Jr. was under consideration, but while he wasn't chosen, he is confident that he has all the attributes to beat the best fighters in the division. 

"You never know, styles make fights," Smith Jr. responded when asked about whether he wished it would have been him that beat Canelo at light-heavyweight. 

"I believe at this point I’m ready to face the best, I believe I am one of the best and can beat a lot of the best."