The super-lightweight division could see a major championship collision added to an already significant event later this year. Reports are circulating strongly that newly crowned WBC Super-Lightweight Champion Subriel Matias may face mandatory challenger Dalton Smith on the anticipated blockbuster card scheduled for November 22nd in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The potential matchup was brought into the spotlight by Turki Alalshikh, a key figure in promoting major boxing events, who indicated that Smith is slated as the next opponent for Matias. This proposed bout would join an impressive lineup for the Riyadh event, which is already expected to feature high-profile clashes such as David Benavidez defending his WBC light-heavyweight interim title against Anthony Yarde, and Brian Norman Jr facing Devin Haney for the WBO welterweight championship.
Subriel Matias (23-2, 22 KOs), hailing from Puerto Rico, recently secured the vacant WBC title with a majority decision victory over Alberto Puello in New York. This win marked Matias`s return to championship status, having previously held the IBF super-lightweight belt before losing it to Liam Paro. Known for his formidable punching power, Matias brings a reputation as a dangerous force in the division.
On the other side stands the undefeated Dalton Smith (18-0, 13 KOs). The British fighter has cemented his position as the WBC mandatory challenger. While he awaits his first world title shot, his resume includes a significant fifth-round stoppage victory over Jose Zepeda, a win that underlined his credentials at the world level. At 28, Smith is viewed as one of the leading contenders at 140 lbs, and this potential bout represents a significant step up to the championship stage.
While an official announcement is pending, the indication from influential figures suggests that the wheels are in motion for this champion-versus-mandatory pairing. The prospect of Matias`s destructive power meeting Smith`s undefeated record and technical skill adds another compelling layer to the packed Riyadh card. For Smith, it`s the culmination of his mandatory status and a chance to prove himself against a reigning champion. For Matias, it`s a potentially difficult first defense of his newly acquired title against a hungry, undefeated challenger.
The inclusion of this fight would further underscore the ambition behind the Riyadh boxing events, bringing together top-tier talent and significant championship contests onto single cards. As the boxing world awaits formal confirmation, the potential clash between Subriel Matias and Dalton Smith is shaping up to be a highly anticipated battle in the competitive super-lightweight division this November.
