Dalton Smith Ready For Alberto Puello Title Defense on October 24

Matchroom confirms Smith’s postponed first title defense will headline Sheffield after a training injury delayed the mandatory bout

Dalton Smith will defend his WBC light welterweight title against mandatory challenger Alberto Puello on October 24 in Sheffield after a training injury forced the original date to be postponed. The hometown champion finally gets the first defense of the world title he captured earlier this year.

Puello heads into the fight after stopping Miguel Angel Bolano in four rounds on July 18. The former WBC champion earned his mandatory position after defeating Gary Antuanne Russell for the interim title, being elevated to full champion and defending the belt against Sandor Martín before losing a majority decision to Subriel Matías.

“I’m delighted the fight is finally back on and that we’ll be defending my WBC world title on October 24 in Sheffield,” said Dalton.

“It was obviously frustrating to pick up the injury when I was in such a good place, especially after all the hard work that had gone into camp. But injuries are part of boxing. The important thing is that I’ve taken the time to recover properly, listened to the medical advice and now I’m back training, feeling strong and ready to go again.

“Becoming World Champion was something I’d dreamed about my whole life, but winning the belt was never the end goal. I want to build a legacy, and that starts with defending the title against the best challengers in the division.

“Puello has been a World Champion before and earned his mandatory position, so I know exactly how tough this fight will be. I’ll be giving him the respect he deserves in training, but once that first bell goes, it’ll be about showing why I’m the WBC World Champion.”

Puello welcomed the opportunity to fight for the title again and said he plans to leave England with the championship.

“I’m excited to be fighting for my title again. I’m looking forward to becoming a three-time World Champion and making history in the United Kingdom in front of its wonderful fan base,” said Puello.

“[Dalton] Smith is a good boxer. I’m excited to share the ring with him and give the fans a great fight.”

Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn said Smith’s first title defense headlines the October 24 show in Sheffield. Smith also revealed he has been promised a future event at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough stadium if he and Matchroom can sell out the Utilita Arena for this title defense, giving the hometown champion extra motivation for a successful return.

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