How world champion Smith can become a mainstream star

Former cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew says Dalton Smith has the ability to become British boxing’s next mainstream star, but needs a defining rivalry to reach audiences beyond boxing fans. Bellew suggests a fight with Adam Azim at Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough Stadium could provide that moment, while stressing Smith must first defend his WBC light-welterweight title against Alberto Puello.

Bellew calls the Saturday bout the toughest of Smith’s career, describing Puello as a southpaw with a high work rate and a strong chin. He advises Smith to avoid a slow start, focus on winning rounds rather than chasing a knockout, and stay at light-welterweight to unify the belts. Smith is unbeaten in 19 professional fights, with 14 wins by stoppage, and beat Subriel Matias in January.