Dalton Smith successfully defended his WBC light-welterweight world title with a split-decision victory over Alberto Puello in a triumphant homecoming at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield. The 29-year-old extended his unbeaten professional record to 20 wins in a high-class tactical contest where both fighters displayed sharp counter-punching skills.
The result hung in the balance as the judges' scorecards were read, with two judges scoring the contest 115-113 in Smith's favour and the third awarding it 116-112 to Puello. This marked Smith's first title defence following his stunning fifth-round knockout of Subriel Matias in Brooklyn in January.
Smith, wearing the blue and white of his beloved Sheffield Wednesday, made his ring walk to AC/DC's Thunderstruck. The atmosphere resembled a football terrace, with fans singing and a drummer and trumpeter accompanying the action.
Looking ahead, Smith aims to headline Sheffield Wednesday's Hillsborough Stadium and target names like unbeaten American Shakur Stevenson. Promoter Eddie Hearn praised Smith's dedication, stating he is a legacy fighter who wants belts and to make his city proud.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing