Britain's Smith retains title in split-decision win over Puello

Britain's Dalton Smith successfully defended his WBC light-welterweight world title in a split-decision victory over Dominican fighter Alberto Puello in Sheffield. The 29-year-old maintained his unbeaten professional record with a high-class tactical contest at the Utilita Arena. Both Smith and Puello displayed sharp counter-punching skills, with the judges' scorecards ultimately determining the winner.

Smith edged the contest, with two judges scoring 115-113 in his favor and the third judge awarding it 116-112 to Puello. Smith, who had previously defeated Subriel Matias by fifth-round knockout, stated that he knew the fight wouldn't be easy and that he wanted to prove why he was the number one fighter. His win extends his record to 20 wins, and he now aims to headline Sheffield Wednesday's Hillsborough Stadium with future high-profile opponents like Shakur Stevenson and Gary Russell in his sights.