Dalton Smith believes this weekend could mark the biggest moment of his career as he prepares to challenge Subriel Matias for the WBC super lightweight world title.
The unbeaten Sheffield boxer travels to Brooklyn to face the powerful Puerto Rican at the Barclays Center, with the fight scheduled for the early hours of Sunday morning UK time.
Smith enters the contest with an unblemished professional record, having won all 18 of his fights, including 13 victories by knockout. He is confident his speed, accuracy and composure can neutralise Matias’ reputation as one of the division’s most dangerous punchers.
Matias has built his name on relentless pressure and stopping power, recording 22 knockout wins from 23 victories, despite suffering two career losses. However, Smith remains convinced he has the tools to handle the threat and finish the fight on his own terms.
The build up to the bout has not been without controversy. Matias returned an adverse finding for a banned substance in a Voluntary Anti Doping Association test conducted in November, an issue that has drawn attention ahead of the title fight.
For Smith, the focus remains firmly on the ring. Victory in New York would see him crowned world champion and add his name to the growing list of British fighters to claim a major belt on the global stag
