Dalton Smith announced himself on the global stage with a stunning fifth-round stoppage of Subriel Matias to win the WBC light-welterweight world title at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center. The 28-year-old dropped the heavy-handed Puerto Rican with a looping overhand right before the referee waved the fight off as Matias staggered back to his feet.
Breakthrough night in New York
Britain’s Smith stood toe-to-toe with the feared puncher and produced a career-defining moment in the fifth round. After briefly stumbling from a Matias combination, he fired back with two sharp left-rights before landing the decisive overhand right that ended the contest.
Smith reflects on fearless approach
“It’s the first time I’ve been the underdog and the first time I’ve fought a monster,” Smith said. He admitted he drifted away from his game plan and chose to trade punches. “I took all his best shots and thought, ‘you can’t hurt me’. I knew I’d get to him.”
Electric atmosphere for Sheffield star
Travelling supporters created a loud backdrop as Smith walked out to Arctic Monkeys, paying tribute to his Sheffield roots. Despite that, Matias had strong backing from New York’s Puerto Rican community and even stopped for selfies during his ring walk.
How the fight unfolded
Smith took the opening round with crisp head and body shots. Matias responded in the second, forcing Smith on to the back foot as blood trickled from his nose. After a scrappy third, Smith chose to trade in the fourth and landed heavy hooks before sealing the win in the next round.
Elite company for new champion
Smith now joins Fabio Wardley, Lewis Crocker, Jazza Dickens and Nick Ball as one of the UK’s current male world champions. He also enters an exclusive group of British fighters who have won world titles in the US, including Nigel Benn, James DeGale and Kell Brook.
Controversy before the bout
Promoter Eddie Hearn had hinted at “justice” following Matias’ positive test for ostarine. The New York State Athletic Commission allowed the fight to go ahead after ruling the detected level was below the accepted threshold.
Future targets in the division
Smith can now set his sights on unification bouts with champions such as Teofimo Lopez, Gary Russell and Richardson Hitchins. “Show me the money,” he said. Matchroom later hinted a homecoming fight at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough stadium could be next.
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