Martin, The Ring's No. 6 rated junior welterweight, gave Puello all he could handle when they met. He lost a very close 12-round split decision against the former titleholder in March 2025.

Since then, the Spaniard has boxed once, is rated No. 2 with the WBC and will be an interested observer.

"It's a big world title fight," Martin (43-4, 15 KOs) told The Ring. "Two of the best going head-to-head, undoubtedly a real fight."

The 33-year-old southpaw from Barcelona broke out with a 10-round majority decision upset over Mikey Garcia in October 2021. He has shown that wasn't a fluke after a narrow, controversial split defeat by Teofimo Lopez the following December. The technician believes there are certain things each man must do to emerge victorious.

"Smith needs to counter Puello’s speed and do a great job of applying effective pressure," he said.

"Puello needs to keep his distance and utilize his reach. Puello is always involved in very close fights. He fights economically; he isn't flashy — just aims to be effective with minimal effort. It's a tricky effort for both men. Puello lacks the power to hurt Smith, but has speed and manages distance well. It won't be an easy night for Dalton."

However, Martin believes while the fight is close on paper, one man will prevail because of a few key areas.

"One thing I’m certain of is that Puello will go the full 12 rounds; I doubt Smith can knock him out — even Matias couldn't, and Puello is a very big fighter for the 140-pound division. Being the champion and fighting at home will prove decisive. I think Smith will win by a narrow margin in a tough fight."