Fresh off his stunning knockout victory over Subriel Matias in Brooklyn, newly crowned WBC super-lightweight champion Dalton Smith is already setting his sights on even bigger prizes. In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Smith not only predicted the outcome of the highly anticipated Teofimo Lopez vs. Shakur Stevenson WBO title fight but also boldly declared his intention to face the winner. But here’s where it gets controversial: Smith believes Stevenson will edge out Lopez on points—a prediction that’s sure to spark debate among boxing fans. Could Smith be underestimating Lopez’s power, or is he onto something the rest of us are missing?
Smith’s recent triumph in Brooklyn wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. By securing one of the most impressive away victories for a British fighter in recent memory, he’s positioned himself as a force to be reckoned with in the 140-pound division. With his eyes now on the Lopez-Stevenson showdown, Smith is leaving no doubt about his ambition: he wants to unify the division, and he’s willing to take on anyone to do it.
The Lopez-Stevenson bout, scheduled for January 31 at Madison Square Garden, is shaping up to be one of the most electrifying fights of 2026. And this is the part most people miss: the card also features two additional world title contests, making it a must-watch event for boxing enthusiasts. Smith, who plans to attend the fight, sees it as more than just a spectator sport—it’s a scouting mission for his next big challenge.
When asked about his willingness to face either Lopez or Stevenson, Smith was unequivocal: “I always said I want to be a world champion, a WBC world champion, and I will fight whoever to do that.” His journey to the top has been fueled by self-belief, and now that he’s achieved his dream, he’s hungry for more. “Let’s see what more we can achieve,” he added, leaving no doubt about his determination.
But here’s the question that’s bound to divide opinions: Is Smith biting off more than he can chew by targeting the winner of this high-stakes bout? Or is he the underdog challenger the division needs to shake things up? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
