Martin Predicts Smith Edges Puello In WBC Title Fight

Sandor Martin has seen Alberto Puello up close, and he expects Dalton Smith to beat him this weekend.

Martin, The Ring's No. 6-rated junior welterweight, dropped a razor-thin split decision to Puello in March and is now positioned as the WBC's No. 2 contender. With Smith and Puello set to clash for the vacant WBC strap Saturday, the Barcelona southpaw told The Ring that Smith will prevail by a small margin in what should be a technical, competitive bout.

Smith Must Counter Puello's Speed and Distance Control

The 33-year-old Martin laid out the blueprint for both men. "Smith needs to counter Puello's speed and do a great job of applying effective pressure," he said, per The Ring. Puello, Martin added, must use his reach advantage and manage range carefully. The former titleholder lacks knockout power but compensates with speed and an economical style built to win rounds without wasted motion.

Martin stressed that Puello is unlikely to get stopped. "One thing I'm certain of is that Puello will go the full 12 rounds; I doubt Smith can knock him out," he said, noting that even Subriel Matias couldn't finish the durable Dominican. Martin believes home advantage and championship pedigree will tilt the fight in Smith's favor, though he cautioned it will be a tough night for the Englishman.

The winner is expected to face Martin next, setting up a potential rematch with Puello or a fresh challenge against Smith. The WBC title bout takes place this Saturday.

Source: ringmagazine.com