Dalton Smith to defend WBC light-welterweight title against Alberto Puello

Dalton Smith will defend his WBC light-welterweight belt for the first time on 24 October when he takes on mandatory challenger Alberto Puello.

The 29-year-old British fighter will be roared on by the crowd in his home city of Sheffield for his 20th professional bout as he aims to extend his undefeated record.

Smith became world champion for the first time in January thanks to a stunning stoppage of Subriel Matias in New York.

His bout with Dominican former champion Puello was originally scheduled for June but had to be postponed when Smith suffered an injury in training.

"I'm delighted the fight is finally back on and that we'll be defending my WBC world title on October 24 in Sheffield," said Dalton.

"It was obviously frustrating to pick up the injury when I was in such a good place, especially after all the hard work that had gone into camp.

"But injuries are part of boxing. The important thing is that I've taken the time to recover properly, listened to the medical advice and now I'm back training, feeling strong and ready to go again."

Meanwhile, Britain's Ben Whittaker will aim to secure himself a shot at the light-heavyweight title when he takes on Australia's Conor Wallace.

After an impressive debut in the US in June, 29-year-old Whittaker will be back on home soil in an IBF eliminator in Birmingham on 3 October.

Promoters Matchroom Boxing also announced that top prospect Pat Brown will fight English champion John Hedges for the British and Commonwealth cruiserweight titles in Manchester on 19 September.

Brown, 26, is considered one of the most exciting talents in the country and has a perfect record through six professional fights, winning all six by knockout.