Dalton Smith will defend his WBC light-welterweight belt for the first time on 24 October against mandatory challenger Alberto Puello. The 29-year-old British fighter will be backed by a home crowd in Sheffield for his 20th professional bout as he looks to keep his undefeated record intact.
Smith became world champion for the first time in January after a dramatic stoppage of Subriel Matias in New York. His fight with Dominican former champion Puello had initially been set for June, but it was postponed after Smith suffered an injury in training.
“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.”
What else is on Matchroom Boxing's schedule?
Britain's Ben Whittaker will try to put himself in position for a light-heavyweight title shot when he faces Australia's Conor Wallace. After an impressive US debut in June, the 29-year-old will return to home soil for an IBF eliminator in Birmingham on 3 October.
Matchroom Boxing also said top prospect Pat Brown will meet English champion John Hedges for the British and Commonwealth cruiserweight titles in Manchester on 19 September. Brown, 26, is regarded as one of the country's most exciting talents and has a perfect record from six professional fights, with all six wins coming by knockout.
Key Facts
- Dalton Smith defends his WBC light-welterweight title against Alberto Puello on 24 October in Sheffield.
- Smith won the world title in January with a stoppage of Subriel Matias in New York.
- Ben Whittaker faces Conor Wallace in an IBF eliminator in Birmingham on 3 October.
- Pat Brown fights John Hedges for the British and Commonwealth cruiserweight titles in Manchester on 19 September.
