It’s crunch time for unbeaten super lightweight Dalton Smith, who takes a step up in class against three-time world title challenger Jose Zepeda at the Sheffield Arena on March 23. The 12-round bout, plus undercard action, will be broadcast by DAZN worldwide.
Smith (15-0, 11 KOs) has solidified his standing at domestic level, having claimed British and Commonwealth championships. The Sheffield man is getting better with every fight and is coming off a seventh-round stoppage of Sam Maxwell in July.
Zepeda (37-4, 28 KOs) suffered an injured shoulder in his first world championship fight against Terry Flanagan in 2015. In subsequent title tilts, the American lefty was deemed very unlucky not to get the decision against Jose Ramirez before being dominated by Regis Prograis.
WATCH: Dalton Smith vs. Jose Zepeda, live on DAZN
Will Smith make a serious statement at 140 pounds, or can Zepeda turn back the clock?
The Sporting News provides odds and a final prediction for this fascinating super lightweight clash:
Dalton Smith vs. Jose Zepeda betting odds
Per BetMGM, Smith is the -250 favourite while Zepeda is the +200 underdog. The draw is +2000.
Dalton Smith vs. Jose Zepeda trends
- Smith via KO/ TKO/ Tech. Dec/ DQ: +225
- Smith via decision: +100
- Zepeda via KO/TKO/Tech. Dec/ DQ: +600
- Zepeda via decision: +500
MORE: How to bet on combat sports
Dalton Smith vs. Jose Zepeda prediction, best bets
This is an excellent fight for the 27-year-old Smith.
While Zepeda, 34, has mixed in better company, he’s in the twilight of his career. The Californian has mixed with the best fighters in the division for almost a decade and he's picked up a lot of wear and tear.
If Smith is going to be a major force in this sport, he has to deal with this assignment in style. The standout dangers here are Zepeda's punching power, which has earned him a 76% knockout ratio, and his world-level experience. Both must be respected.
I expect Smith to ease his way into things and be cautious early. His sharper reflexes and swiftness will steadily take over as the fight progresses and he’ll eventually hurt Zepeda with something big.
My hunch is that the home fighter can end this one inside the distance.