Dalton Smith Believes the Jose Zepeda Fight is Right on Time
Next up for England’s Dalton “Thunder” Smith (15-1, 11 KOs) is a March 23 battle with multiple-time world title challenger Jose Zepeda (37-4, 28 KOs). Smith believes a win elevates him to the world level in the junior welterweight division and qualifies him for a world title shot.
THE REAL DEAL OR NOT?
Smith is a fighter who’s been the focus of plenty of attention in British boxing circles. They and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, feel that the 27-year-old has the talent to become a world champion.
But up until now, he hasn’t faced the competition to warrant such high praise. The most notable win on Smith’s record came in his last outing, a seventh-round stoppage over Sam Maxwell in July 2023.
The chance for the Brit to prove himself comes against Zepeda. During an interview with Matchroom Boxing, Dalton talked about the significance of this upcoming fight.
“I’m going to show who Dalton Smith is at the 140-pound division . . . Jose Zepeda is the perfect fight for me . . . 2024 is going to be a breakout year for me pushing onto the world scene.”
TIME TO STEP UP TO THE PLATE
Coming off a loss to Richardson Hitchins in September 2023, some in the boxing community feel that the now 34-year-old Zepeda has seen his best days. But as the saying goes, styles make fights. Hitchins was a constantly moving fighter who would not stand and fight with Zepeda. That will not be the case against Smith.
Thunder fights more in the center of the ring and is willing to mix it up. With his experience and punching power, Zepeda will test the chin and resolve of Smith. If Thunder shows that he can’t take a punch and doesn’t have true intestinal fortitude, he will get exposed.
Smith believes he’s a fighter made up of the right stuff, inside and out. Knowing that the pressure is squarely on his shoulders, he knows he must take care of business against Smith to show that he’s world-level.
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