Photo via BBC Sport

Smith v Puello - all you need to know

Dalton Smith will defend his WBC light-welterweight world title for the first time in Sheffield on October 24, facing former champion Alberto Puello in a highly anticipated rematch. The 29-year-old Smith, who remains unbeaten with 19 wins—14 by stoppage—secured the title in January by knocking out Subriel Matias in a dramatic fifth-round finish, marking his first victory in the U.S.

Puello, 32, is a two-time world champion whose only professional loss also came against Matias, adding intrigue to the bout. Originally scheduled for June, the fight was delayed due to Smith’s training injury, forcing a nine-month postponement.

The undercard features multiple title opportunities, including a vacant WBC International Silver lightweight bout and British super-flyweight defenses, while the main event will air live on BBC Sport and BBC Radio 5 Live with commentary led by Ronald McIntosh and Richie Woodhall.

Smith’s return to his hometown adds emotional weight to the fight, capping a breakout year that saw him rise through the ranks with English, British, Commonwealth, and European honors before his U.S. triumph.

Puello, meanwhile, seeks to reclaim the title he lost in 2025, testing Smith’s ability to maintain dominance in a division where both fighters have proven knockout power. With the ringwalks expected around 22:00 BST and doors opening at 16:00, the event promises a full night of competitive action at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena.

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