Dalton Smith to Defend WBC Junior Welterweight Title Against Alberto Puello in Sheffield
Dalton Smith will defend his WBC junior welterweight title against former world champion Alberto Puello on June 6th at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, England. Matchroom Boxing confirmed the bout, marking Smith’s first title defense and his first fight as a world champion on home soil.
Smith’s Rise to the Championship
Smith (19-0, 14 KOs) captured the WBC belt in January with a stunning fifth-round knockout victory over Subriel Matias in Brooklyn, New York. ESPN notes the win was considered a significant upset and a standout performance by a British boxer on foreign soil. The fight was described as a brutal slugfest before Smith secured the win with a pair of right hands in the fifth round.
Puello’s Challenge
Puello (24-1, 14 KOs) is Smith’s mandatory challenger and is ranked No. 7 by ESPN in the junior welterweight division. The Dominican fighter is a two-time junior welterweight champion, having held titles in 2022 and 2025 before losing to Matias in July 2025. Bad Left Hook highlights that Puello presents a different stylistic challenge than Matias.
Quotes from the Fighters and Promoter
“New York was a trip of a lifetime, but now it’s about bringing big world title fights to Sheffield and it’s great to start my reign as champion back at the Utilita Arena,” Smith said. “It’s straight into a mandatory defence so you expect world class opponents. There’s no denying Puello’s a top boxer – he’s a two-time champion for a reason.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn stated, “This is another mega fight coming to British shores – and another one for fight fans to enjoy on the Global Home of Boxing, DAZN. Dalton’s win in Brooklyn will live long in the memory. It was an incredible night. Now he has the chance to cement his legacy and forge his name into folklore.” Hearn also described Smith as “the Steel City King” and predicted a tough night for Puello in Sheffield. BBC Sport also reported on these statements.
What’s at Stake
This fight represents a crucial step for Smith as he aims to establish himself as a dominant force in the junior welterweight division. A successful defense against a seasoned opponent like Puello will further solidify his position and pave the way for future high-profile matchups. The Ring Magazine notes the significance of this bout for Smith’s career trajectory.