In a sensational night at Barclays Center, New York, Dalton Smith shocked the boxing world by defeating Subriel Matias with a fifth-round knockout, capturing the WBC light-welterweight title. His professional record now stands at 19-0 (14 KOs).
From the opening bell, the fight promised fireworks. Matias pressed forward, using his heavy hands and aggressive combinations to challenge Smith, who initially tried to keep the fight at range. By Round 3, Smith was drawn into close exchanges, trading punches toe-to-toe with the champion.
Despite being rocked by a series of uppercuts and body shots, Smith remained composed. In Round 5, the Sheffield fighter unleashed a pair of powerful right hands. The first shook Matias, and the second floored him, prompting the referee to stop the fight with under a minute remaining.
Dalton Smith said after the fight:
“It’s the first time in my career I’ve been the underdog and the first time I went against a monster. I cancelled all the noise. Tonight was my night.”
Smith’s victory ends Matias’ unbeaten run in knockouts, with the Puerto Rican champion previously achieving 22 KOs in 23 wins. The fight marked Smith’s American debut, a night complicated by Matias’ earlier adverse drug test results, which were ultimately cleared by the WBC.
Promoter Eddie Hearn praised Smith, stating:
“He beat Matias at his own game. Matias had never been down or hurt before, and now Dalton Smith has announced himself as the new superstar of the 140-pound division. The future is unbelievable.”
The British champion joins a distinguished group of current UK male world champions alongside Fabio Wardley, Lewis Crocker, Jazza Dickens, and Nick Ball.
Looking forward, Smith is ready for all challengers:
“Bring on the challenges. I’m one of the best, if not the best in the division. I’m ready to mix it up with everyone.”
