DALTON Smith returns to the home ring on April 19, taking on Canada’s Mathieu Germain at the Canon Medical Arena in Sheffield. Smith, (17-0, 13 KOs), was last seen blitzing France’s Walid Ouizza in a round in their Nottingham headliner, picking up the European title at super-lightweight.
The 28-year-old is now mandatory challenger for that sanctioning body, meaning WBC champion Alberto Puello is in his sights, providing Germain, (26-2-1, 11 KOs), is dealt with first.
Puello fought last weekend, narrowly outpointing Sandor Martin over 12 rounds to retain his title. Before that, the Dominican fighter defeated Gary Antuanne Russell on points, so he has shown solid form.
“I had an excellent start to the year winning the European Title in spectacular fashion and now that I’m Mandatory Challenger for the WBC Title I’m looking to keep up my activity,” buzzed Smith.
“Mathieu Germain will be coming to win but I’ll be getting the job done – he’s in the way of some huge nights for me. I’m not looking ahead, but there will be one name I’ll be calling out after dealing with Germain. Alberto Puello, where you at?!”
Twice-beaten Germain is 35 and both of those losses were by stoppage. The Montreal man is on an eight-fight winning streak since a 2020 defeat to Yves Ulysse Jr. Germain did bounce back from that with a split decision win over Steve Claggett, who challenged Teofimo Lopez for the WBO title. Germain and Claggett had previously boxed to a draw.
“I am a boxer who thrives on challenges,” said Germain.
“Dalton is one of them. I’ve been working hard my whole life for this moment!”
Supporting the main event will be recent Matchroom signing Josh Padley, 29, fresh off his short notice assignment against Shakur Stevenson.
Former featherweight champion Josh Warrington returns to action, while Ishmael Davis and Ryan Kelly meet in an eliminator for the British super-welterweight title.
Giorgio Visioli takes on Kane Baker. Leli Buttigieg and Joe Howarth appear in separate contests.
