Dalton Smith Crowned World Champion: Upset Win Over Subriel Matias in New York

The world of professional boxing witnessed a significant shift on‌ January 11, 2026, as Smith secured a world ⁢championship title, joining an elite group of‌ British fighters. This victory marks a pivotal moment in⁢ his career and adds another name to the UK’s‌ growing roster of world champions.

Despite acknowledging ⁢the skill of his opponent,Subriel,smith emphasized a departure from his planned strategy during the bout. “Take nothing away from Subriel – ‍he’s a‍ great champion,” he stated, reflecting ⁤on the challenge he faced. He admitted to engaging in a more aggressive exchange than ​initially intended, a decision that ultimately proved triumphant.

Interestingly, this tactical shift momentarily concerned his corner, particularly ⁤his father, but Smith remained confident in his ability to withstand the ​pressure. “I gave my dad a bit of a heart attack in there as that wasn’t the gameplan,” he confessed, “but I took all his best ​shots and thought ‘you can’t hurt me’.⁢ I knew I’d get to him.” This self-assurance proved crucial in overcoming the defending ​champion.

With this win, Smith now stands alongside fellow British world champions ⁣Fabio Wardley (heavyweight), Lewis‍ Crocker (welterweight), Jazza dickens (super-featherweight),⁤ and Nick Ball (featherweight), solidifying the UK’s presence on the global boxing stage. According to data⁣ from the British Boxing Board of Control, the number of British world champions has increased by 25% in the ‍last five years,‌ demonstrating a resurgence in the sport within the country.

The atmosphere at the venue was ⁣electric, fueled ​by eager support from travelling fans. Smith’s entrance, accompanied by Arctic Monkeys’ “When the Sun Goes Down” ​- a nod to his Sheffield‌ roots ⁢- created ‌a memorable scene.However, the arena also held a strong ⁢contingent of supporters⁤ for Matias, benefiting from the significant ⁢Puerto Rican population in New York.

Matias appeared remarkably composed leading up to the fight, even taking time for selfies ‍with family ‍members during his ring walk. This relaxed demeanor, however, didn’t translate⁣ into a slow start, as he often demonstrates.

The​ opening round saw Smith capitalize on Matias’s tendency to begin slowly, landing precise punches to both the head⁤ and body. He ‌effectively⁢ established his presence early, dictating the pace of ​the fight. Though, Matias quickly adjusted, regaining control‍ in the second round and forcing Smith to retreat, resulting⁣ in a cut above the Briton’s nose.

A somewhat ​chaotic third round preceded a surprising shift ​in strategy from Smith, who opted to ⁢engage in a more⁤ direct exchange with the champion. This decision, while risky, ultimately​ proved to be a ⁤turning point in the fight.

Matias entered the fight with an notable record of 22 knockouts in