Dalton Smith, a 28-year-old from Sheffield, is set to challenge WBC world champion Subriel Matias on Saturday in Brooklyn. The bout will mark Smith's toughest assignment yet as he aims to emulate the legendary Ricky Hatton. A victory would make Smith the UK's fifth reigning male world titleholder and cement his place among British boxing greats.
Smith has won all 18 of his professional bouts, but faces a formidable opponent in Matias, who boasts 22 stoppages in 23 victories. The bout has raised concerns due to Matias testing positive for Ostarine, a muscle-growth agent banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency. However, Smith's team maintains that he is not aware of Matias' doping history.
Hatton was a dominant force in British boxing during the early 2000s, winning multiple world titles and earning a reputation as one of the toughest fighters of his generation. His style and persona have been an inspiration to many young boxers, including Smith.
Smith's journey to the title has been marked by impressive performances, but he faces a significant test in Matias. The bout will be held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, with Sky Sports broadcasting live coverage.
In the lead-up to the bout, Smith has spoken about his desire to follow in Hatton's footsteps and become a world champion himself. He has also expressed his admiration for Hatton's achievements and cited him as an inspiration.
The bout is expected to be a closely contested and intense fight, with both fighters looking to outclass each other on the night. Smith will need to use all his skills and experience to overcome Matias' formidable punching power and aggressive style.
As the two fighters prepare for their showdown, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating a thrilling contest that could have far-reaching consequences for the boxing world. With the stakes high and the bragging rights on the line, Smith and Matias will be locked in a battle for supremacy that promises to be an unforgettable night of action.
Smith has won all 18 of his professional bouts, but faces a formidable opponent in Matias, who boasts 22 stoppages in 23 victories. The bout has raised concerns due to Matias testing positive for Ostarine, a muscle-growth agent banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency. However, Smith's team maintains that he is not aware of Matias' doping history.
Hatton was a dominant force in British boxing during the early 2000s, winning multiple world titles and earning a reputation as one of the toughest fighters of his generation. His style and persona have been an inspiration to many young boxers, including Smith.
Smith's journey to the title has been marked by impressive performances, but he faces a significant test in Matias. The bout will be held at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, with Sky Sports broadcasting live coverage.
In the lead-up to the bout, Smith has spoken about his desire to follow in Hatton's footsteps and become a world champion himself. He has also expressed his admiration for Hatton's achievements and cited him as an inspiration.
The bout is expected to be a closely contested and intense fight, with both fighters looking to outclass each other on the night. Smith will need to use all his skills and experience to overcome Matias' formidable punching power and aggressive style.
As the two fighters prepare for their showdown, fans around the world are eagerly anticipating a thrilling contest that could have far-reaching consequences for the boxing world. With the stakes high and the bragging rights on the line, Smith and Matias will be locked in a battle for supremacy that promises to be an unforgettable night of action.