Dalton Smith Edges Alberto Puello in Split Decision Thriller to Retain WBC Light-Welterweight Title

Dalton Smith kept his perfect record intact and retained the WBC light-welterweight championship with a split-decision victory over Alberto Puello on Saturday night. The judges scored the fight 115-113, 115-113 for Smith, and 114-114, reflecting the razor-thin margin in a bout that showcased both fighters' elite skills. Smith, now 19-0, had to dig deep against the crafty Dominican, who used effective counterpunching and movement to trouble the champion throughout the twelve rounds. The win solidifies Smith’s position among the division’s top names and sets the stage for potential unification bouts or a high-profile defense later this year. For Puello, the narrow defeat is a bitter pill, but his stock remains high after pushing an unbeaten champion to the limit. The result also keeps the Sheffield native on course for a blockbuster domestic clash, with fans already calling for a matchup against other British champions. As Smith continues his ascent, the 140-pound division has a new undeniable force—and the next chapter promises even bigger fireworks.