Sheffield's Dalton Smith announced himself on the world stage in spectacular fashion, stopping the feared Subriel Matias to claim the WBC light-welterweight title in Brooklyn on Saturday night.
A Dream Realised in New York
Fighting at the Barclays Centre, the 28-year-old Brit entered the bout as the underdog against the powerful Puerto Rican champion. The early rounds were a tense, tactical affair, with both men having their moments. Smith displayed sharp boxing skills, while Matias lived up to his reputation as a dangerous inside fighter, making it a closely contested battle.
The Dramatic Fifth-Round Finish
The fight's complexion changed decisively in the fifth round. After a period of fierce exchanges, Smith connected with a perfectly timed right hook in the final minute that badly wobbled Matias. A follow-up blow sent the champion to the canvas. Although Matias attempted to rise, the referee wisely waved off the contest, handing Smith a career-defining victory by technical knockout and preserving his unbeaten professional record.
Smith's Message and the Road Ahead
An emotional Smith paid tribute to his opponent in the aftermath, stating he had chosen to fight fire with fire. "It's the first time in my career I've been the underdog and the first time I've fought a monster," Smith said. "Take nothing away from Subriel - he's a great champion. I played him at his own game. You can't hurt me and I knew I'd get to him."
He also sent a powerful message to his supporters: "This is a message to every kid out there. Do not let anybody tell you you can't achieve your dreams because if you work hard, you can do it." Confident in his abilities, Smith declared himself ready for all challenges, claiming he is "one of the best, if not the best in the division."
His promoter, Eddie Hearn, was effusive in his praise, labelling Smith the new superstar of the 140-pound weight class. "He has announced himself as the light-welterweight superstar. The future is unbelievable," Hearn said, even floating the tantalising prospect of a future homecoming fight at Hillsborough, the stadium of Smith's beloved Sheffield Wednesday.
