By Matt Christie
Building boxing champions requires a delicate skill that is not always apparent. It involves making strategic decisions, such as choosing suitable opponents for prospects at the right time, or creating hype and publicity through promotion. However, even the most accomplished fighters eventually reach a stage in their careers where they must take risks to continue their success.
Last weekend, Dalton Smith delivered a knockout blow to contender-turned-gatekeeper Jose Zepeda, showcasing his strategic skills. Throughout the first four rounds, Zepeda displayed his talent and cleverness in a cautious manner. However, in the fifth round, Smith identified a vulnerability in the experienced fighter’s defense. Swiftly, a powerful right hand struck Zepeda’s stomach, leading to an immediate checkmate.
Smith’s victory against Zepeda goes beyond mere boxing skill displayed in four and a half rounds. It signifies his understanding of the significance of not squandering any move or opportunity on his journey to success. In his fifth fight, Smith moved past facing ordinary opponents with losing records. From then on, he steadily climbed the ranks by challenging increasingly accomplished rivals or those who presented specific challenges he needed to overcome. For instance, his fifth opponent, Benson Nyilawila, was a southpaw, while his sixth opponent, Nathan Bennett, was a determined British fighter. Smith continued this pattern, facing tall and ambitious fighters like Ishmael Ellis (opponent number seven) and former English champion Lee Appleyard (opponent number eight), who was in top form at the time. And so on, and so forth.
Despite being Zepeda’s biggest challenge so far, it was all part of a well-thought-out plan. Smith had already faced three southpaws in his professional career, but Zepeda was older, past his prime by at least three years, and had only won one fight in the past two years. This strategic move was carefully orchestrated behind the scenes and flawlessly executed by Smith. However, there are even tougher challenges ahead. Thanks to this meticulous career management, Smith will be well-prepared to succeed when those opportunities arise.
There is a strong desire for Adam Azim, the talented and reigning European champion in the 140lbs division, to be the next opponent in the upcoming test. However, it is important to be understanding if Azim is not selected for the next challenge. At only 22 years old, he is still relatively young and lacks significant experience at the amateur level. Just like Smith, Azim has every right to progress at his own pace and move up when he feels prepared. The exciting news is that he is not too far from reaching that point.
Dalton Smith takes the fight to Jose Zepeda.
(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)
HUGE IMPROVEMENT
The Small Hall scene has greatly improved its performance.
CREDIT where it is due. In our September 2022 issue we bemoaned the state of small hall boxing with the headline on the cover reading, The Unfair Fight: Why are so many occurring in British rings?
Despite the initial resistance from some insiders regarding our investigation, we must now emphasize the delightful transformation that has taken place. Previously, it was uncommon to witness any competitive fights occurring simultaneously in all the small halls during a weekend. Nevertheless, it is now uncommon to find a card that does not include at least one competitive fight, with several recent months even featuring two or three. This signifies a significant increase in the quality and worth of the experience.
Credit should be given to the matchmakers and promoters who invest their own money into their promotions, knowing that they are unlikely to make a profit. Let’s hope that the ongoing transition eventually changes this trend of financial losses.
The different regional titles, serving as a stepping stone to the British championship, are now frequently contested with great enthusiasm and pride. Consequently, the Lonsdale Belt, although not as prestigious as before, has regained its status as one of the most coveted trophies to achieve, ensuring consistently intense and closely contested matches.
Creating an alluring product that captivates not just individuals purchasing tickets to witness a single fighter, but also those seeking a full evening of entertainment, will undoubtedly have positive implications for the sport on every level.
Well done to all involved.
