Dalton Smith vs. Alberto Puello: What Is at Stake in the WBC Title Fight?

Dalton Smith’s fight with Alberto Puello on October 24 is a defense of the WBC world super lightweight championship. Smith brings the belt to Sheffield’s Utilita Arena; Puello is the mandatory challenger trying to regain a title he previously held.

It is Smith’s first defense since he stopped Subriel Matías in the fifth round in Brooklyn on January 10.

Which Title Is at Stake?

The WBC belt is contested in the 140-pound division, also called super lightweight or junior welterweight. The event is a world-title defense, rather than an undisputed championship fight. Its result will determine the holder of the WBC title; it does not by itself combine all of the division’s major sanctioning-body belts.

Matchroom’s current event listing identifies Smith as unbeaten at 19–0 with 14 knockouts and Puello at 25–1 with 11 knockouts.

Why Puello Is Back in the Title Picture

Puello previously held the WBC championship before losing a majority decision to Matías in July 2025. Smith then took the belt from Matías in January, bringing a former holder back against the current champion.

The WBC’s official fight-week account describes Puello as an experienced southpaw and Smith as the defending champion facing his mandatory.

For Smith, a successful defense would keep the WBC title in his possession and extend his unbeaten professional record. For Puello, victory would restore him to that championship position.

Why the Fight Is Happening in October

Smith–Puello was originally announced for June 6. Matchroom subsequently announced that an injury had ruled Smith out of that date, then confirmed the rescheduled October 24 defense in July. The current event page still lists Saturday’s fight in Sheffield.

For the broadcast route and event viewing information, see the separate Smith–Puello Watch Guide.