Sheffield’s super-lightweight luminary, Dalton Smith, has inked a fresh multi-fight pact with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, riding the high of his paramount victory over three-time world title aspirant Jose Zepeda, a spectacle that streamed globally on DAZN.
At 27, this erstwhile amateur marvel, honed by his progenitor Grant in the crucible of Steel City Gym, clinched the WBC Silver Title, dispatching the Mexican American Zepeda with a merciless torso blow in round five, sending him sprawling.
This thunderous triumph positions Smith for titanic tussles within the 140lbs division, teeming with prospects for this pugilistic standout who’s amassed an enviable trove of titles including British, Commonwealth, English, WBC International Silver, and WBA Intercontinental.
Yearning for a marquee fight at Hillsborough, the heartland of his cherished Sheffield Wednesday, Smith also eyes American rings, with ex-WBC and WBA champion Regis Prograis keen on a showdown with the formidable British powerhouse.
“Thrilled to renew my stint with Matchroom,” Smith declared. “They’ve been my squad from the start, fostering a deep bond with Eddie, Frank, and the crew. I’m truly ensconced in this family. With Matchroom and STN Sports steering, my pugilistic dreams are within grasp.”
“The Zepeda win is a launchpad into the echelons, despite whispers of its prematurity. But rising to the challenge, I remained unwavering, ready to prove my global mettle.”
“Zepeda was no easy mark; his defeats were against the elite. That caliber of opponent was crucial for my assertion on the world stage.”
“My sights are set on Hillsborough for a landmark fight, but the allure of an American bout is undeniable. The 140lbs division is brimming with giants and epic encounters await. A clash with Prograis? Fascinating. Yet my ultimate quest is a Hillsborough showdown, world title or not.”
Eddie Hearn, Matchroom’s chief, echoed the sentiment, “Securing Dalton Smith, a future world champion, is a coup. His stellar performance against Zepeda simplifies my role.”
“With such a landmark victory, we’re gearing for grander venues, scaling Sheffield Arena’s capacity, and envisaging Hillsborough Stadium battles. The super-lightweight division holds vast potential for Dalton, and I’m buoyed for what lies ahead.”