Dalton Smith W12 Mathieu Germain... Former European and British champion Dalton Smith is one step closer to a world title shot following a resounding points win over Mathieu Germain in Smith's home city of Sheffield, England.  Scores of 119-105 (twice) and 117-107 demonstrated just how one-sided the contest was, but Germain (26-3-1) displayed huge courage as he climbed off the canvas three times to ensure he heard the final bell. The unbeaten Smith continues to be linked with a showdown with domestic rival, Adam Azim, but it appears that a world title shot is his preferred option and that could take place at some point this year. 

 

It appeared that Smith was set to land an early night when he dropped Germain with a well-timed left hook in the second session, but the bell sounded to end the round before Smith could follow up with another attack.  Germain, from that point, was in survival mode and although Smith moved forward patiently, Germain showed excellent survival instincts to make it to the end, especially after he was dropped for a third time in the last session. 

 

“I want the world title next,” said Smith when speaking to DAZN afterwards. “I’m hoping the boss man next to me [Eddie Hearn] can get me my world title shot.”  Smith’s attention will now turn to New York City on May 2nd when Teofimo Lopez and Arnold Barboza clash in a huge fight to determine the best fighter at 140lbs. Whoever comes out on top will be a serious target for Smith.