'I have his word' - Dalton Smith's Sheffield Wednesday dream moves a step closer
The Sheffield Wednesday supporter revealed promoter Eddie Hearn has already made him a promise
Dalton Smith has paid tribute to his loyal Sheffield supporters after confirming his long-awaited first defence of the WBC super-lightweight world title will finally take place at the city's Arena on October 24.
After months on the sidelines following an elbow injury, the unbeaten champion says the encouragement he received from fans throughout his recovery meant a great deal.
Now back in full training at Steel City gym, Smith is determined to reward that faith with a statement victory over dangerous mandatory challenger Alberto Puello – one that could pave the way for an even bigger homecoming at his beloved Hillsborough next summer.
The Sheffield Wednesday supporter revealed promoter Eddie Hearn has already made him a promise.
"I’m delighted the fight is finally back on and that we’ll be defending my WBC world title on October 24 in Sheffield," said Smith.
"It was obviously frustrating to pick up the injury when I was in such a good place, especially after all the hard work that had gone into camp.
"But injuries are part of boxing. The important thing is that I’ve taken the time to recover properly, listened to the medical advice and now I’m back training, feeling strong and ready to go again.
"Becoming world champion was something I’d dreamed about my whole life, but winning the belt was never the end goal. I want to build a legacy, and that starts with defending the title against the best challengers in the division.
"Puello has been a world champion before and earned his mandatory position, so I know exactly how tough this fight will be. I’ll be giving him the respect he deserves in training, but once that first bell goes, it’ll be about showing why I’m the WBC champion."
While the injury delayed his first defence, Smith never doubted the backing of his home city supporters.
Their messages during his rehabilitation helped lift him through one of the most frustrating periods of his career.
"I want to thank everyone for their patience and support over the last few months. The messages meant a lot during my recovery, and I’m looking forward to getting back in front of my home fans.
"I have Eddie’s word that we sell this Arena out in October then Hillsborough will be happening next Summer.
"October 24 can’t come soon enough. I’ll be ready to put on a statement performance in Sheffield."
The prospect of boxing at Hillsborough would represent another landmark moment in Smith's remarkable rise.
Having fulfilled a lifelong ambition by becoming world champion earlier this year, the opportunity to headline at the stadium he has supported since childhood would be another dream realised.
But first comes the toughest test: Puello will be intent on ruining the party.
The Dominican has already held world honours and believes victory over Smith will see him crowned a three-time world champion.
"I’m excited to be fighting for my title again. 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" he said.
"Smith is a good boxer. I’m excited to share the ring with him and give the fans a great fight."
Promoter Hearn believes Smith's success has significance far beyond his own career.
Surrounded by a generation of talented British fighters including Ben Whittaker, George Liddard, Pat Brown and John Hedges, Hearn sees the Sheffield champion as the man who has shown exactly what can be achieved.
Hearn described the Sheffielder as "the man who has shown the way to all of those young British fighters by realising his world title dream earlier this year."