SHEFFIELD’S Dalton Smith, 18-0 (13 KOs), has ruled out a clash with Adam Azim in the near future. The current WBC super-lightweight mandatory challenger is focused on a world title shot against champion Albert Puello, who faces former champion Subriel Matias in New York on July 12.
The Smith-Azim rivalry has simmered in British boxing circles over the past year. Smith, 28, last fought in April, outclassing Mathieu Germain over 12 rounds. Meanwhile, Azim, 13-0 (10 KOs), scored his career-best win in February, stopping former world champion Sergey Lipinets. The 23-year-old was set to fight on the Simpson-Zucco undercard in Barnsley last Saturday, but the British Boxing Board cancelled the bout following concerns from the Mexican Boxing Commission about Azim’s opponent, Eliot Chavez.
Smith was also at Oakwell that night, supporting gym-mate Thomas Essomba in his final career fight against Rhys Edwards. Speaking to Sky Sports, Smith said he expects news on his world title shot within the next month. He addressed the prospect of facing Azim but dismissed any immediate plans.
“Our time will come,” Smith told Sky Sports. “It takes two to tango. I’ve been there to tango. It’s on their behalf now. Win the world title, and those fights will be there.”
