DALTON A MISSION
Smith to prove he’s world class
DALTON SMITH admits the pressure is on to deliver as he looks to prove that he is world class.
The British light-welterweight rising star takes on title-challenging veteran Jose Zepeda in a dangerous showdown for his career tonight at Sheffield Arena.
Smith, 27, has been rightly heralded as a potential big name for the sport in this country – but that will be put to the test tonight against a fighter who has come up short in three world title fights.
There is some concern this is a risk too soon for the 15-0 Sheffield native.
But the time is right for him to be stepping up if his team’s belief that he can become a star in the division is correct.
“Look, I know this is a big step up in class,” said Smith, whose two wins in 2023 came against solid British level opponents.
“But I am always going through the levels, progressing, learning and I reckon I’ve been ready for this level since about 2022.
“Now I have to show it, don’t I? That is the test.
“This is the type of fight that makes me go from British titles to world titles. I want that WBC belt and this is a fight which puts me in the mix for it.
“I’m confident, I need to propel myself and this fight will do it.”
The last time Zepeda, 34, was on these shores, a cruel shoulder injury brought an end to his challenge against Manchester’s Terry Flanagan for the then vacant WBO lightweight title in 2015.
The American went on to challenge for the WBC light-welterweight title twice as he lost to Regis Prograis and Jose Ramirez.
But he has some nice names in the win column and 28 stoppages in 37 victories.
“I know I can’t switch off in this fight,” said Smith. “He’s been around and he can hit hard.
“But I can hit hard as well. That makes this a very exciting fight.
“I know I can’t switch off for a second. If I do, then my career changes in an instant.
“But I’m confident I’ll put on the best performance of my career so far and show the world what I’m about.
“I’ve said before I want to be the next star to come out of Sheffield.
“There’s been a few good ones over the years but now this is my time to shine.”
British rivals Sandy Ryan and Terri Harper face each other for the WBO women’s welterweight title on the undercard tonight.