In a stunning display of skill and power, Dalton Smith dethroned Subriel Matias at the Barclays Center in New York City on January 10, claiming the WBC super lightweight title. The bout, which was the headline act of a Fresh Productions card, saw Smith demonstrate his prowess, ultimately leading to a stoppage victory that has set the boxing world abuzz with speculation about his next move.
Smith, hailing from Sheffield, entered the ring with a perfect record of 19-0, including 14 knockouts. His opponent, Matias, a formidable Puerto Rican with a record of 23-3 and 22 knockouts, was no pushover. The fight began with both boxers feeling each other out, Smith using his jab effectively while Matias showcased his power with eye-catching flurries. However, it was Smith’s cleaner, more precise work that began to tell the tale.
The turning point came in the fifth round. Smith landed two devastating right hands that visibly wobbled Matias. Seizing the moment, Smith followed up with a clubbing right hand that sent Matias crashing to the canvas. Although Matias managed to rise, his legs were unsteady, prompting the referee to wave off the fight and award Smith the WBC super lightweight title.
With the title securely around his waist, attention has swiftly turned to what lies ahead for the newly crowned champion. One name that has been frequently mentioned is fellow Brit, Adam Azim. However, Frank Smith, CEO of Matchroom Boxing, has recently shared his thoughts on the potential matchup, suggesting that Azim may not yet be on the same level as Smith.
Speaking with authority, Frank Smith stated, “It’s premature to place Adam Azim in the same league as Dalton Smith. This is not to discredit Azim, who is undoubtedly a talented boxer, but he hasn’t achieved what Dalton has.” Smith emphasized Dalton’s traditional route to success, highlighting his victories in securing the English, British, Commonwealth, and European titles, and ultimately earning a mandatory position to challenge for the world title.
Frank Smith further elaborated, “Dalton has done it the hard way. He’s gone against the so-called ‘bogeyman’ of the division, a fighter no one else wanted to face, and he won the world title on foreign soil. It’s about what Dalton wants now. He’s the world champion who has done everything asked of him.”
When questioned about the possibility of an Azim fight, Frank Smith was clear: “It’s up to Dalton. We promote Dalton Smith, and our focus is on delivering the best possible fights for him—the biggest opportunities. If the Adam Azim fight becomes a huge event in a year’s time, then it’s certainly a fight to consider. But it will be on Dalton Smith’s terms.”
As the dust settles on Smith’s remarkable victory, the boxing community eagerly awaits his next move. One thing is certain: Dalton Smith has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the super lightweight division, and his future bouts promise to be nothing short of electrifying.
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