Age and a handful of wars convinced oddsmakers, pundits, and fans that Callum Smith could no longer compete against the best of the best.

His most recent performance proved, however, that he isn’t ready to be anyone’s gatekeeper. In fact, he's now closer than ever to a shot at The Ring and undisputed light heavyweight championship recently claimed by Dmitry Bivol (24-1, 12 KOs).

Both fighters claimed big wins this past Saturday at ANB Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Liverpool's Smith (31-2, 22 KOs) outpointed unbeaten countryman Joshua Buatsi over twelve rounds to win the interim WBO light heavyweight title. The fight came in supporting capacity to Bivol's revenge-fueled, majority decision win over Artur Beterbiev (21-1, 20 KOs) to claim all the relevant light heavyweight hardware.

“Bivol’s got the belts so ideally, Bivol," said Smith when asked who he wants next. "I don’t know what he’s gonna do. Maybe he’s gonna have a third match [with Beterbiev], I’m not too sure. I just want to be a world champion again."

On paper, all signs pointed to the 34-year-old Smith having the edge over Buatsi. He was more experienced, had been in there with better competition, and once held a world title. Buatsi, for as good as he was, never checked those boxes.

Yet, losses to Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez (62-2-2, 39 KOs) and Beterbiev seemingly sullied his industry standing. Still, even with the naysayers going against him, Smith went on to box beautifully on the night.

Usually, Smith is stoic. But, once that interim WBO strap was draped over his shoulders, he couldn’t stop himself from smiling. Winning that secondary title is something he’s proud to add to his collection but it isn’t just about the hardware. It’s what it represents.

“It puts me very, very close to the ultimate goal which is being a two-weight world champion,” said Smith during an interview with Boxing Now. “I’m interim world champion which means I’m next in line to fight for the title so it was a massive win for my career.”

Waiting for Smith could be a shot at Dmitry Bivol. The Russian recently took down Artur Beterbiev to become the light heavyweight division’s undisputed champion. But while Smith wants the next crack at him, he could be forced to wait. Currently, Bivol and Beterbiev are tied at one win apiece. Meaning, a third fight between them is likely.

Smith though, despite his age, isn't in a rush. He understands that both fighters have unfinished business. With that said, he wants them to know that he’ll be waiting for the winner.