Alberto Puello praises Dalton Smith, feels his fight helped 'weaken' Subriel Matias
Jan 17, 2026
1 min read
Former WBC junior welterweight world champion Alberto Puello has made it clear, whether their proposed bout happens in England or elsewhere, he's looking forward to getting the first crack at newly-minted champion Dalton Smith as he seeks to reclaim wh...
Alberto Puello watched with vested interest last Saturday as Dalton Smith picked up his old title, knocking out Subriel Matias in five rounds.
The former WBC junior welterweight titleholder knew after last month's Bangkok convention he would face the winner and now knows it will be Sheffield puncher Smith (19-0, 14 KOs).
Puello, The Ring's No. 3-rated junior welterweight contender, lost a controversial 12-round majority decision to Matias during The Ring III card on July 12, but wasn't surprised the Brit ripped the belt from his old rival, commending him for the manner of his victory.
"It was a good fight," Puello (24-1, 10 KOs) told The Ring through a translator. "I remember that Subriel was easy to hit and Dalton has good punching power.
"I thought Smith's strategy of going for the knockout and not leaving the decision to the judges - so the same thing that happened to me wouldn't to him - was very good."
However, the 31-year-old southpaw does feel as though his battle with Matias took something from the Puerto Rican and aided Smith.
"The fight against me was very tough," he said. "I think I helped make Subriel come out weaker and less intense because of how tough our fight was."
Now that the dust is settling, Puello is relaxed about what is next or where it takes place.
"I have no problem with wherever the fight is held," he said at the prospect of potentially going to England for Smith's homecoming.
"I'm a very disciplined boxer and I'm eager to reclaim my title."
His promoter, Belgica Pena of Shuan Promotions, says this is next and is ready to make it happen.
"We're going straight for the world title against Dalton Smith," she said.
"Dalton is a great champion, but Puello is a very complete boxer and has shown that he doesn't limit himself, he's intelligent and disciplined. With these qualities, he has great opportunities to win this fight and many more."
Questions and/or comments can be sent to Anson at elraincoat@live.co.uk and you can follow him on X@AnsonWainwr1ght
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