Sheffield's undefeated boxing star, Dalton Smith, is poised for the most significant night of his professional career as he challenges for a world title in New York tonight.
The Big Apple Showdown
The 28-year-old fighter will step into the ring against the reigning super-lightweight champion, Puerto Rico's Subriel Matias. This high-stakes bout represents the culmination of years of dedication for Smith, who has long aimed to become Sheffield's next world champion. The fight takes place on the evening of 10 January 2026.
Finding Focus Away from the Ring
Away from the intense training regimen, Smith finds crucial mental respite in an unlikely hobby: fishing. He revealed that he has been angling since the age of 14, a passion introduced by his brother-in-law. "Fishing lets me think about absolutely nothing apart from catching fish which makes it a great switch-off from boxing," Smith explained.
He admits to investing heavily in the pastime, even purchasing a camper van to access more remote fishing spots, with dreams of one day hunting "monster trout and salmon" in Norway and Iceland. Despite his enthusiasm, he humorously labels himself a "mediocre" angler, saving his competitive fire for the boxing ring where it matters most.
Navigating Controversy and Setting Future Goals
The build-up to the title fight has not been without controversy. Matias tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine in November of last year, though he has denied any wrongdoing. The New York State Athletic Commission permitted the fight to proceed after determining the concentration found was below their threshold for a violation.
Undeterred, Smith's focus remains squarely on victory. A devoted Sheffield Wednesday fan, he has already set his sights on a triumphant homecoming. "I've always had great support from the club, so it would be great to bring a huge stadium fight to Sheffield once I’m champion," he stated, eyeing a potential title defence at Hillsborough stadium.
Reflecting on his journey from a six-year-old learning the sport with his father, Smith added: "Becoming world champion will mean everything to me... I know that it doesn’t stop at becoming champion." For Dalton Smith, the quest for glory in New York is just the beginning.
