SIBLING squabbles are a rare occurrence in the Smith household.

The quartet of brothers found from an early age that scraps in the boxing ring were far more enjoyable and dishing out the punishment on others much more to their liking.

Schooled at the Rotunda ABC, Bootle, the Smiths are in the early stages of what promises to be a lasting Liverpool boxing legacy, with the latest chapter being scripted for tonight.

The elder statesman of the group, Paul, defends his British super-middleweight title at the Echo Arena against city rival Tony Dodson whilst younger brothers Stephen and Liam provide support with bouts earlier on the bill.

But before any of the three professional fighting Smiths lace up their gloves, 19-year-old amateur star Callum competes 4,000 miles away in India.

Boxing in the Commonwealth Federation Finals, Callum is the last remaining Smith waiting to claim a senior ABA title but 24-year-old brother Stephen does not anticipate a long wait – though patience is proving one of his main virtues.

Undefeated, Stephen takes on Welshman Jason Thomas (7-26-3) in his 10th pro fight as he bides his time for that long overdue title bout.

Smith said: “ Frank (Warren) has assured me I’m getting a title fight after this one, so tonight is just practice for me really.

“I’m not disrespecting Jason but they were talking about this being the fight where I took a step up. They were talking names like Mark Moran and Rocky Dean so for everything not to happen, and for me then to be pitched against Jason, was a bit disappointing.”

And while Stephen’s victory appears a certainty, the 2006 Commonwealth Games champion confidently predicted a Smith clean sweep tonight, saying:“There will definitely be four Smith wins. Callum will be first, he fights in the afternoon and he will get us off to a good start. Me and Liam will do likewise and then Paul will put the icing on the cake by knocking Tony Dodson out.

“Anyone who knows Callum knows he is so laid back and nothing affects him, nothing like me. I would be itching every day thinking I’ve got to win that ABA title.”

l Tickets for ‘The Pride of Merseyside’ are available at www.echoarena or by calling 0844 8000 400.