Dalton Smith names world champion as the best fighter at super lightweight

Super lightweight contender Dalton Smith has labelled current WBO and Ring Magazine Teofimo Lopez as the best fighter at 140lbs. 

Smith is not far away from challenging the likes of Lopez for a world title, but first he must beat Mathieu Germain on April 19 which will be broadcast live on DAZN. 

A win for Smith will maintain his undefeated record and keep him active ahead of what is likely to be a mandatory title challenge against WBC champion Alberto Puello. 

Lopez is also in action in the not too distant future when he defends his titles against Arnold Barboza Jr on May 2 live on DAZN PPV. This contest is part of a historic boxing event which will take place in New York's Times Square with Ryan Garcia and Rolando Romero meeting in the main event. 

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Speaking to The Ring, Smith is excited about the lay of the land at super lightweight and while he called Lopez "unpredictable", Smith still believes that he is the man to beat in this particular weight division. 

"These are exciting times at 140lbs and the New York show is showcasing that," Smith said.

“There are lots of big names but for me, I think Teo has got to be the strongest one. Sometimes he’s a bit unpredictable with performances, but I think Teo on his day is probably the best out of them all.

“But I’m happy to fight any and all of them. I didn’t mind who won out of Puello or Martin either. Right now, I’m going to back myself to beat any of them, I just need the opportunity to prove that I’m right.”

If Lopez and Smith fought, it would be the first time the American has faced a British fighter since Josh Taylor in 2023. Lopez won that bout by unanimous decision to become the new WBO super lightweight champion. 

Watch Ryan Garcia vs Rolly Romero on DAZN worldwide

Ryan Garcia vs Rolly Romero; Devin Haney vs Jose Ramirez; and Teofimo Lopez vs Arnold Barboza Jr on DAZN Pay-Per-View worldwide.

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