Dalton Smith successfully defended his WBC super lightweight title against former champion Alberto Puello in Sheffield, England, securing a split decision victory on DAZN. The bout, originally scheduled for the summer but delayed due to injury, concluded with judges scoring the fight 116-112 for Puello, while two other judges scored it 115-113 for Smith. This result marks Smith’s first defense of the belt he won in January by stopping Subriel Matias, who had previously defeated Puello in a controversial majority decision in July 2025.
Smith retains WBC belt in a gritty, close decision against Puello in Sheffield
The twelve-round contest was characterized by mature, strategic boxing rather than high-octane action, with both fighters exchanging significant moments throughout the evening. Smith edged out Puello in the final tally, demonstrating the resilience needed to retain his championship in a difficult environment. Puello, known for making life difficult for every opponent he has faced, delivered a competitive performance that kept the decision close until the final bell. The fight showcased the high level of skill in the division, even if it lacked the knockout drama fans often seek.
Key takeaways from the event highlight Smith’s ability to manage a tough opponent and secure a vital retention of his world title. With the belt safe, Smith can now look forward to a potentially more exciting matchup in his next bout. Puello’s performance reaffirms his status as a formidable force in the super lightweight division, one who consistently poses a threat to reigning champions. The close scoring underscores the parity at the top of the weight class, setting the stage for future high-stakes encounters.
Source: Yahoo Sports
