Smith v Puello world title fight predictions

Dalton Smith, the WBC light-welterweight champion, will defend his title in Sheffield on Saturday against former champion Alberto Puello. The 29-year-old Smith, who has won all 19 of his professional fights with 14 stoppages, returns to the ring after a stunning knockout victory over Subriel Matias in January. Puello, 32, is aiming to become a three-time world champion following his loss to Matias last year.

Smith will have the home crowd's support at the Utilita Arena. Among boxing figures, Chantelle Cameron, a two-weight world champion, predicts a majority decision win for Smith in a close fight. Darren Barker, a former middleweight world champion, believes Smith will win via decision or late stoppage. Carl Frampton, another former two-weight world champion, predicts a wide points decision for Smith.

Denzel Bentley, WBO middleweight champion, and Carl Frampton both favor a Smith win on points. Barry Jones, a former super-featherweight world champion, thinks Smith will win on points despite Puello's experience. Viddal Riley, a European cruiserweight world champion, backs Smith, citing his power and work-rate. Paulie Malignaggi, a former two-weight world champion, also supports Smith, predicting a unanimous decision.

Zelfa Barrett, a British lightweight, believes Smith will stop Puello late in the fight. Richie Woodhall, a former super-middleweight world champion, predicts a close fight with Smith having slightly better speed and technique.