Subriel Matias v Dalton Smith: Sheffield boxing star cites Ricky Hatton as inspiration ahead of Brooklyn battle
Dalton Smith will be walking a path trodden by legends when he fights in New York tonight.
The 28-year-old, born and bred in Sheffield, has finally landed a world title shot.
It took 18 professional wins after a glittering amateur career but ‘Thunder’ is now where he wants to be - on the verge of glory.
Standing in his way is the formidable Subriel Matias, the WBC light-welterweight champion Smith must dethrone.
The journey to Brooklyn did not start in amateur competitions, nor did it start when he turned professional in 2019.
It started as a child, when Smith watched British icons claim belts he wanted for himself.
Dalton Smith’s inspiration
For ‘Thunder’, the late Ricky Hatton is a particular source of inspiration.
"I got into boxing at six years old,” he said. “The dream is to become a world champion with travelling supporters.
"I looked up to one of the greatest of all time - God rest his soul - the legend, the 'Hitman' Ricky Hatton. What he did, the nights he had… he inspired us.
"I'm not here to make up the numbers. I'm here to achieve a childhood dream and to win the best belt in boxing.”
Dalton Smith’s style
Smith is among the British fighters building a loyal fanbase, but it is not just his association with a boxing-crazed city driving ticket sales - nor is it merely his unbeaten record.
His style is easy on the eye for boxing connoisseurs, with his slick footwork a joy to behold. The effortless nature of his technical ability is combined with emphatic punching power and that is a blend that gets fans parting with cash.
Subriel will provide Smith with his sternest test to date, but the Yorkshireman believes the bigger nature of the fish will only make him a more dangerous fryer.
"Subriel will bring the best out of me,” he said. “The bigger the danger that is in front of me is when I perform [my best work].
"I punch hard. I think in any fight, you've got to get the opponent's respect, whether amateur or professional.”
Eddie Hearn’s verdict
In enemy territory across the pond, Smith will play the unfamiliar role of underdog challenger.
Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn, however, can only envisage one outcome.
“It’s a great fight, and Subriel is a tremendous fighter, but it's just the perfect style for Dalton Smith," he said. “He’s a master boxer, great footwork, and he punches very hard. I think he’ll stop Subriel Matias late in the fight.”