Subriel Matias Vs. Dalton Smith Breakdown

Subriel Matias will defend his WBC junior welterweight title against Dalton Smith on January 10, as we look at how the fight could play out. 

Matias makes the first defense of his belt, which he acquired with a majority decision win against Alberto Puello in July. It was a massive result since Matias gave Puello his first loss. It was also the perfect response having lost his IBF Junior welterweight title to Liam Paro in 2024. Meanwhile, the fight will be the first time that Smith has boxed in the US.

It is also his first title fight, knowing a victory propels his career to a new level. The undefeated Brit stopped former world champion Jose Zepeda in March 2024 in front of his home town fans in Sheffield, England. He followed that up with a win over Mathieu Germain on April 19 in his last fight to give his opponent his first loss. Those wins made him the leading contender with the WBC. 

The Approach

Matias is a thudding puncher who relies on high volume, constantly walks down his opponents, using his high guard and strong chin. Matias may throw 80 to 100 punches per round, focusing on his left hook and straight right to the midsection to drain Smith’s stamina. Matias’ key to victory is to negate Smith’s sharp boxing skills by denying him the time and space to set his feet. 

Smith knows he cannot stand and trade with the champion. Smith’s approach will be to frustrate and out-point Matias by fighting at range and exploiting the champion’s aggressive deficiencies. He must use frequent lateral movement and pivots to keep Matias turning. For example, after landing a quick jab-straight right combination, Smith must immediately pivot out toward the ropes. Crucially, Smith needs to land clean, eye-catching counter-punches to score points and make Matias respect his offense.