Dalton Smith believes he will be talked about as a contender in the 140lb division, should he beat Sam O’maison in Sheffield on Saturday.
Smith (11-0, 9 KOs) meets O’maison (17-3-1, 7 KOs) for the vacant British super lightweight title in an all-Sheffield derby at the Utilita Arena, live on DAZN.
The highly-rated, unbeaten 25-year-old feels a win could be a breakthrough moment in his career in a division which sees fellow Brit, Josh Taylor hold two of the four major world titles.
“It probably has come sooner than I expected,” Smith told proboxing-fans.com at Thursday’s press conference.
“But, I took the opportunity. [Promoter] Eddie [Hearn] has given me an opportunity.
“My supporters have come out in force, the place is virtually going to be sold out.
“So yeah, there’s a big buzz around it and I’m excited to go.
“Me winning on Saturday night, I think it moves me from the prospect to the more contender even though it’s only my 12th fight and I’m 25-years-old.
“But I’ve got one task and that’s Saturday and that’s all I’m focused on.”
’Thunder’ has won nine of his 11 professional victories by stoppage, including his last fight where he forced Mauro Perouene to retire after six rounds in Cardiff in April.
Smith, who has previously held the English title as well as several regional belts, has shared the ring with O’maison previously in sparring and is confident of adding to his stoppage spree against the 31-year-old southpaw, but insists he is prepared to go the distance should it be required.
“Of course I’m very confident I can get anyone out of there,” he added.
“But, I prepare for 12 rounds.
“If it goes 12 rounds that’s how it is.”
The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) have called for the winner of Saturday’s fight to make a mandatory defence against Kaisee Benjamin (16-1-1, 6 KOs).
Watch the full interview with Dalton Smith below:
