K.L.
both my boys showed an interest at this age and younger. they both were toilet trained by 24 months before they could really talk. My only advice is be patient. I would go ahead and potty train while he is interested if he looses interest back off then when he's interested again move forward.
don't push too hard but absolutely use rewards. for my older one it was a sticker on a blank piece of paper or a mini M&M, my other was dried apricots, some use money a penny for #1 and silver coins for #2 whatever is easy cheap and interesting for your child. It is a process but no progress is wasted so if he does great then wants to cool it for a week you usually pick back up where you left off.
good luck with your very smart little guy!