Sheffield boxer Dalton Smith reveals his mindset going into home city title challenge with Alberto Puello
Dalton Smith comes up against Alberto Puello in Sheffield on Saturday night
Dalton Smith will retain a “challenger” mindset ahead of the first defence of his WBC light-welterweight title on Saturday against Alberto Puello in Sheffield.
Smith will return to the canvas for the first time since he stunned Subriel Matias in Brooklyn at the start of 2026 to become world champion.
This bout was initially scheduled for June before a training camp injury pushed it back by four months, but Smith is raring to go and will not allow his new premier status in the 140lbs division to change his approach in Utilita Arena.
“Once you’re in the ring nobody is a champion, we’re both challengers,” Smith said.
“I don’t put the pressure on or make it too deep. It’s a fight at the end of the day. I go in, give it 100 per cent, be who I am and that’s how I got the world title and that is how I will keep it.
“It’s so easy to take your eye off the ball so you have to keep that consistency until the day you retire.
“You have to keep a level head. Prepare like a challenger and fight like a challenger. I think that is the best way to prepare.
“He is a top fighter. They are all top fighters at this level and that is why you leave no stone unturned.
“You have to go in there fully prepared and I’m well prepared to get the job done.”
Smith toasted his world title win in January with Guinness and plans more of the same.
“He is a southpaw but I’ve boxed many southpaws in my career and always done well with that style. I’ll go in there as Dalton Smith, stick to the game plan and come out as world champion,” Smith insisted.
“Whether it is points or stoppage, it doesn’t matter as long as the belt is around my waist.
“Everyone must think I have a drink problem now (after January), but I’ve not drunk since then! No, I’ll definitely celebrate with a Guinness after.
“One or two doesn’t hurt but if you’re drinking the barrel, it’s not too good for ya!”