Dalton Smith Faces Alberto Puello in Sheffield Title Defense; Boxing Figures Predict Outcome

WBC light-welterweight champion Dalton Smith will make the first defense of his title on home soil when he faces former champion Alberto Puello in Sheffield on Saturday. Smith, who is undefeated in 19 professional fights, returns to the ring for the first time since capturing the world title with a knockout victory over Subriel Matias in New York in January.

Puello, a 32-year-old fighter from the Dominican Republic, aims to become a three-time world champion. He lost his WBC belt to Matias on points last year. The fight will take place at the Utilita Arena in Sheffield, where Smith hopes to keep his aspirations of fighting at Hillsborough stadium alive.

Figures from the boxing world have offered their predictions for the bout. Chantelle Cameron, a two-weight world champion, anticipates a closely contested fight but predicts a majority decision win for Smith. Former middleweight world champion Darren Barker sees a terrific match-up between Puello's southpaw style and Smith's rugged approach, favoring Smith by decision or a late stoppage.

Carl Frampton, a former two-weight world champion, expects a cagey start, with Smith eventually proving to be the better boxer and winning by a wide points decision. WBO middleweight champion Denzel Bentley also backs Smith, predicting a points victory. Former super-featherweight world champion Barry Jones views Puello as a clever boxer who will make the fight difficult, but ultimately expects Smith to prevail on points.

European cruiserweight champion Viddal Riley, who has known Smith since childhood, is backing his compatriot to win. Former featherweight world champion Lee Selby predicts Smith will win by unanimous decision, citing Smith's power and accuracy. Paulie Malignaggi, a former two-weight world champion, acknowledges Puello's ability to disrupt rhythm but believes Smith's size, intelligence, and boxing ability will lead him to a comfortable points victory.

DAZN presenter Ade Oladipo notes the significant home advantage Smith will have at the Utilita Arena but acknowledges Puello's experience and desire to reclaim his belt. He leans towards Smith but wouldn't be surprised by a Puello win. Zelfa Barrett predicts Smith will stop Puello late in the fight, likely in the ninth or tenth round. Former super-middleweight world champion Richie Woodhall believes Smith's speed and flair will be key, provided he avoids trading at Puello's slower pace. British welterweight Harlem Eubank predicts a points victory for Smith in a competitive fight.