Dalton Smith in high-stakes Sheffield Arena return
The respect is obvious in every word Dalton Smith has to say about Alberto Puello.
Smith returns home to Sheffield Arena on June 6 to make the first defence of his WBC super lightweight title - and he is fully aware of the challenge in front of him.
“It’s straight into a mandatory defence so you expect world class opponents,” he says.
“There’s no denying Puello’s a top boxer. He’s a two-time champion for a reason.
“But I went to New York as the away fighter, with all the outside-the-ring stuff going on, and went toe-to-toe with the supposed bogeyman who had just beaten Puello - but that’s what we’re about in Sheffield: full of heart and nuts of steel.”
The bout marks a significant moment not just in Smith’s career, but in the ongoing story of big fight nights in Sheffield.
The Arena has long been the city’s boxing cathedral.
It was there that Joe Calzaghe announced himself on the world stage against Chris Eubank, (1997) while Clinton Woods thrilled home fans with world title nights of his own (2005 and 2007.)
Later, Kell Brook made it his fortress, drawing huge crowds and delivering electric performances, and Ricky Hatton also brought major events to the Steel City.
More recently, Dave Allen proved the pulling power of Sheffield boxing remains as strong as ever with an October show at the Arena.
Now it is Smith’s turn to carry that tradition forward, with his fourth appearance there.
“New York was a trip of a lifetime, but now it’s about bringing big World Title fights to Sheffield and it’s great to start my reign as champion back at the Utilita Arena,” he said.
“I’ve had many special nights already there. The atmosphere will be rocking and I can’t wait to see everyone there on June 6.”
Standing opposite him will be a fighter determined to reclaim his place at the top.
“Puello’s an awkward southpaw, but it’s well known I love that style,” Smith added. “It’ll be a big performance from me in my homecoming.”
Puello, however, is travelling with ambition rather than apprehension.
“I’m excited to be fighting for my title again on June 6,” he said. “I’m looking forward to becoming a three-time World Champion and making history in the United Kingdom in front of its wonderful fan base.
“Smith a good boxer. I’m excited to share the ring with him and give the fans a great fight.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn believes the stage is set for another memorable night in Sheffield.
“This is another mega fight coming to British shores.
“Dalton’s win in Brooklyn will live long in the memory. It was an incredible night. Now he has the chance to cement his legacy and forge his name into folklore.
“Dalton is the Steel City King and Alberto Puello - a formidable, former two-time World Champion in his own right - will be in for one tough night with an electric atmosphere awaiting him in Sheffield.”
With the history of the Arena behind him and a serious test in front of him, Smith now stands on the brink of another defining night - one that could further secure his place among Sheffield’s boxing greats.