Vinny's Corner

As the boxing world kicks off 2026 with a bang, few matchups promise the raw intensity of Subriel Matias defending his WBC super lightweight title against the undefeated Dalton Smith. Set for this Saturday at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, this 12-round clash pits a battle-hardened Puerto Rican powerhouse against a slick, rising British star.

With Matias coming off a controversial but cleared doping hiccup and Smith stepping up for his first world title shot, expect fireworks that could reshape the 140-pound landscape.

Breaking Down the Fighters

At 33 years old, Subriel “El Orgullo de Maternillo” Matias (23-2, 22 KOs) is the epitome of a fighter who’s been forged in fire.

Hailing from Fajardo, Puerto Rico, the 5’9″ orthodox puncher boasts a staggering 95.65% knockout rate, with most of his victims crumbling under relentless body attacks and vicious left hooks.

His journey to the top has been anything but smooth: shot in 2012 during a street fight, briefly imprisoned, and then turning pro in 2015. Matias’s career hit a tragic peak in 2019 when he stopped Maxim Dadashev in a brutal war that led to Dadashev’s death from injuries— an event that haunted him but also fueled his drive.

He captured the vacant IBF super lightweight title in 2023 with a fifth-round TKO over Jeremias Ponce, defended it once, but lost it in a surprise upset to Liam Paro in 2024.

Undeterred, Matias rebounded by outpointing Alberto Puello to claim the WBC strap in July 2025, marking him as a two-time world champion. Stylistically, Matias is a forward-marching bull: he stalks opponents, cuts off the ring, and unleashes combinations that break down even the toughest foes. His 130 professional rounds give him an edge in experience, but vulnerabilities show—he’s been dropped before and can be outboxed early if an opponent keeps distance. Still, with trainer Jay Nahar in his corner, Matias thrives in wars, promising to “bring out the little girl” in Smith. This defense is his chance to solidify his reign and chase unification bouts against names like Teofimo Lopez or Shakur Stevenson.

On the other side, 28-year-old Dalton “Thunder” Smith (18-0, 13 KOs) represents the new guard of British boxing talent. From Sheffield, England, the 5’9.5″ orthodox fighter has built an impeccable resume since turning pro in 2019, blending sharp boxing skills with respectable power (72.22% KO rate).

His amateur pedigree is elite: a silver medal at the 2014 European Youth Championships, bronze at the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and the 2018 ABA national title. Under trainer (and father) Grant Smith, he’s climbed the ranks methodically, capturing the British super lightweight title in 2022 with a stoppage of Sam O’Maison, the Commonwealth belt in 2023 via KO over Sam Maxwell, the WBC Silver in 2024 with a TKO of Jose Zepeda, and the European title in 2025 by knocking out Walid Ouizza.

Smith is a classic box-puncher: he uses a stiff jab to control range, counters crisply with straight rights, and picks up the pace late for stoppages. This is his acid test against top-tier opposition. Younger and fresher than Matias, Smith claims he’s spotted “weaknesses” in the champ’s style and is ready to unleash his inner monster.

Matias’s aggressive pressure could overwhelm Smith if he traps him on the ropes, but Smith’s footwork and counterpunching might frustrate the champ and lead to a late surge. Both are similar in height and stance, but Matias’s edge in power (22 KOs in 23 wins) contrasts Smith’s technical finesse. Stamina will be key—Matias has gone deep in tough fights, while Smith’s unblemished record hides a lack of elite-level wars.

The Official Pick

While Dalton Smith’s undefeated streak and boxing IQ make him a live underdog, Subriel Matias’s championship experience and knockout artistry tip the scales. Expect Smith to start strong, using movement to frustrate, but Matias’s body work will slow him down by the middle rounds. I predict Matias retains his title with a late stoppage. let’s say a TKO in round 9, as he breaks Smith down in a grueling, fan-friendly affair. Matias by KO/TKO.

Where to Watch

The Matias vs. Smith card airs live on Saturday, January 10, 2026, with the main broadcast starting at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT (around 1:00 AM GMT for UK viewers).

It’s available exclusively on PPV.com for $54.99, streamable on smart TVs, mobile devices, desktops, Roku, Chromecast, and Apple TV. Check local listings for international options.

Oh and the undercard features intriguing bouts like Jeyvier Cintrón vs. Jonathan Javier Rodríguez and Emmanuel Rodríguez vs. Fernando Díaz. Don’t miss what could be an early Fight of the Year contender.

By Vincent

Photo courtesy of Matchroom boxing