God. I've been waiting for this matchup since January when the rumors started floating around. Sheffield's own Dalton Smith taking on Canada's Mathieu Germain in what's basically a world title eliminator? Sign me up immediately.
I spent last night rewatching Smith's previous fights instead of sleeping (terrible life choice) and I'm convinced this kid is the real deal. The 28-year-old puts his perfect 17-0 record on the line this Saturday night, and I'm genuinely nervous for him. Not because I don't think he'll win, but because Germain is exactly teh type of opponent who could give him problems.
Why This Fight Makes Me Stupidly Excited
Listen. Smith is probably one of the most technically gifted fighters in Britain right now. My boxing coach actually used clips of his footwork in our training session last week. "This is how you pivot without compromising your balance," he kept saying while I nodded like I understood what the hell he was talking about.
But Germain? This 35-year-old Canadian veteran hasn't tasted defeat since 2020. Eight straight wins. That's impressive no matter how you slice it.
The power difference is what fascinates me here.
Smith has this ridiculous 76% knockout rate (13 KOs in 17 fights). Germain sits at a more modest 42% with 11 KOs in 26 fights. But numbers can lie. I remember thinking Anthony Joshua would steamroll Andy Ruiz based on stats alone... and we all know how that turned out.
Experience vs. Raw Talent (The eternal boxing question)
Germain has 12 more professional fights under his belt. That's 12 more walks to the ring, 12 more training camps, 12 more times hearing the final bell. Experience matters.
I texted my friend who works with Matchroom last night: "Does Smith have the experience to handle Germain's craftiness?"
His response: "Dalton's been preparing for this moment since he was 10. Trust me."
Maybe he's right. I hope he's right. I put £50 on Smith winning by decision, so he better be right.
The Weird Tension at Yesterday's Workout
I was at Smith's media workout at Steel City Gym yesterday. Something felt off. Not with his performance—he looked sharp as ever—but there was this strange tension in the air. His dad (also his trainer) kept pulling him aside for these intense little conversations.
When I asked about the gameplan, Smith just smiled and said, "Hit and don't get hit." Classic boxer non-answer. But his eyes told a different story. This fight means everything to him.
So When Can You Actually Watch This Thing?
The fight goes down this Saturday, April 19th, in Sheffield. Main event ring walks should be around 10pm UK time, though you know how these things go... always running late.
It's streaming live on DAZN. If you're not already subscribed, it'll cost you £19.99 for a month. Worth every penny in my opinion, especially since the undercard is stacked.
I'll be there in person, probably spending way too much on overpriced arena beer and screaming myself hoarse.
A Surprisingly Solid Undercard
Josh Warrington is fighting Asad Asif Khan further down the card. Back in 2018, I interviewed Warrington after his win against Carl Frampton and he told me he'd be world champion "until they drag me out of this sport." Now he's trying to rebuild after those tough losses. Poor Josh.
The full lineup includes:
- Smith vs Germain (WBC Silver super-lightweight title)
- Kelly vs Agyarko
- Warrington vs Khan
- Padley vs Cvetanovic
- Visioli vs Barker
- Howarth vs Portillo
- Buttigieg vs Dennis
I'm particularly interested in seeing Padley after his controversial world title shot last year. My editor bet me $20 that he'd look "completely shot" after that brutal loss. I disagree—I think he's got at least one more good run in him.
The Stakes Couldn't Be Higher
Winner of Smith-Germain likely gets a world title shot next. That's career-changing money adn opportunity on the line. No wonder Smith looked so intense at the workout.
This is what boxing is all about... two fighters, both on impressive runs, clashing to see who takes that next step up the ladder.
I've got butterflies just thinking about it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do boxers keep their weight in check and manage their weight classs?
Boxers maintain their weight with a combination of strict diets, and training. Dieticians work with boxers to create a diet that allows them to achieve their weight-class target without sacrificing energy and nutrition. Exercise and weight monitoring are important, particularly as the fight nears. Weight management involves a strategic approach that, if not performed correctly, can result in health problems and/or poor performance.
What is the minimum training required for professional Boxing?
For anyone to start training in professional boxing they must have a commitment to fitness, discipline and an open mind. Initial training involves mastering the fundamentals, including stance, footwork, punches, and defensive techniques. You should join a reputable gym with trainers who are experienced and understand the nuances in professional boxing competition. To develop their skills, new boxers will undergo rigorous conditioning drills as well as sparring and technique drills.
What is the basic training program of a Boxer?
A boxer’s training program is typically composed of a few key components. These include technical skills development, tactics drills, strength-and-conditioning, sparring, as well as mental preparation. The tactical drills will help you develop your fight strategy. Technique-focused training improves punch accuracy, defensive maneuvers, and defensive techniques. Sparring and conditioning exercises provide practical combat experience. Mental training is aimed at building resilience, confidence and focus.
What are professional boxing's risks?
Professional boxing, like any contact sport, carries inherent risks. There are many acute injuries that may occur, including head trauma and fractures. Chronic conditions can also develop, such a concussions. While proper training, safety equipment and compliance with boxing regulations can reduce the risks, they will never be eliminated. To box professionally, you must accept these risks and be able to recognize them.
How does a boxer progress from amateur level to professional level?
A significant change in competition, intensity of training, and mental preparedness is required to make the transition from amateurs to professionals. Amateur boxers must build a track record by participating in local and regional competitions. It is also critical to obtain a professional boxing license and align with experienced managers and trainers who can guide career decisions and secure professional bouts.
What role do managers, promoters and agents play in a pro boxer’s career?
Promoters and managers play a crucial role in the professional career of a boxer. Managers are responsible for guiding the boxer's career path, negotiating contracts, and handling the business affairs of the boxer. Also, they help select the right fights while looking out for the interests of the boxer. Promoters on the other hand focus on event planning, marketing of fights, attracting audience, and sponsor attention. This enhances a fighter's public image and earning potential.
Do you have to be a certain age to learn how box professionally?
Professional boxing does have age restrictions. Most boxing commissions require that boxers be 18 years or older to compete professionally. Although there is not a set age limit for the upper age bracket, factors like physical capability and health will naturally limit what age one can safely and effectively compete. It is important that older athletes are thoroughly evaluated for risk and fitness before they take up a professional sport.
Statistics
- Approximately 80% of professional boxers start their career in the amateur ranks before transitioning to the professional level.
- Statistical data indicates that there has been a 15% increase in the number of professional boxing gyms over the last decade.
- Professional boxers typically train 4 to 6 hours per day, 5 to 6 days a week, depending on their fight schedule.
- Cardiovascular fitness is critical, with a focus on high intensity interval training, comprising up to 40% of a boxer's conditioning program.
- On average, a professional boxer spars between 100 to 200 rounds in preparation for a major fight.
- The average age for boxers to turn professional is between 18 to 25 years, though many continue to compete well into their 30s and beyond.
- Reports suggest that successful professional boxers can earn upwards of 50 times more than the median purse for entry-level professionals per fight.
External Links
How To
How to Learn from and Analyze Professional Boxers
Learning from professional boxers can significantly enhance your understanding of the sport. Study the techniques, movements, and tactics of boxers by watching them. Be sure to pay attention to their pace control, defensive skills and adaptability to different opponents. Consider their footwork or combinations. Find out what they do well. Watch their demeanor and mental fortitude under pressure. Supplement this by reading their interviews and learning about their training routines and philosophies. You can integrate this knowledge into your training and mentality.
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