Smith Eyes Title Shot Amidst PED Cloud

Undefeated British star Dalton Smith is set for a world-title showdown against WBC super lightweight champion Subriel Matias on January 10 in Brooklyn. Smith has committed to rigorous training and extreme weight management for months, making significant personal sacrifices, including during the holiday season, to reach the 10-stone limit. His dedication stems from a desire to emulate British boxing heroes like Ricky Hatton.

The bout is overshadowed by controversy surrounding Matias, who tested positive for osterine in a VADA test on November 9. Despite this, the New York State Athletic Commission and the WBC have cleared the fight to proceed, citing mitigating factors and sub-threshold concentrations. Smith has expressed his awareness of the situation, promising further comment after the fight, and emphasizing his commitment to clean sport.

This high-stakes fight represents a significant opportunity for Smith to achieve championship status and add to the growing successes of British boxers. He aims to follow in the footsteps of Ricky Hatton, a former world champion at the same weight, whose legacy deeply inspires Smith. A victory would be a crowning achievement for Smith, particularly given the challenging circumstances and his desire to bring a world title back to northern England.