Alberto Puello Ready to Defend WBC Title Against Sandor Martin with Dalton Smith Looming

On March 1 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, WBC Super Lightweight World Champion Alberto Puello (23-0, 10 KOs) will defend his title against mandatory challenger Sandor Martin (42-3, 15 KOs) on a PBC Pay-Per-View Event on Prime Video. Ahead of this world title clash, Puello has spoken from his training camp about the upcoming challenge against the Spanish southpaw.

Alberto Puello Talks WBC Defence Against Sandor Martin With Dalton Smith Waiting

Dalton Smith Eyes Winner of Alberto Puello vs. Sandor Martin Clash

Puello-Martin will be an intriguing bout on the undercard of Gervonta Davis vs Lamont Roach. Puello will be looking to overcome this tough title defence with Brit Dalton Smith (17-0, 13 KOs) waiting in the wings as the number two ranked in the WBC. Following his destructive win over Walid Ouizza, Smith spoke about what he wanted next: “I’m sat number two with the WBC, I’m hoping to get the winner of the [Alberto] Puello-Sandor Martin fight,” Smith said to The Stomping Ground.

The Dominican fighter recently revealed his thoughts on his training camp under the guidance of Ishmael Salas and his thoughts on facing Martin.

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“I’m pushing myself to be the best. Every day we’re in the gym sharpening my skills, working on my movement and making sure I’m in top shape. Coach Salas has a great eye for detail, so we’re focused on the little things that will make a big difference in the ring. We’re making sure I’m going to be the best Alberto Puello that anyone has seen,” said Puello regarding his training camp with Salas.

Looking ahead to facing Martin, the 30-year-old world champion said: “Sandor Martin is going to be a tough challenge. He’s the number one contender for a reason. He’s got a smart and complicated style, but we’ve been studying him closely. I’m preparing to take away his strengths and impose my own game plan. When that bell rings, I’ll be ready for whatever he brings.”

The Importance of Victory

“The only thing I’m envisioning is a win and keeping my unbeaten record. This win not only strengthens my status as world champions, but it creates the opportunity for even bigger matchups. I’m here to show that I’m the best champion in the 140-pound division. This fight is a huge opportunity to prove that to the world,” said the Dominican when discussing his hopes for the future.

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Fighting in New York

Puello is looking forward to fighting in Brooklyn: “Fighting at Barclays Center in Brooklyn for the first time is going to be special. I hear the energy in New York is different, and I know the fans are going to bring their passion. I’m very proud to be representing the Dominican Republic in New York and I hope the fans come out to see me do it in style. When I step in the ring and they see how I fight, I know they’re going to love it. I can’t wait to put on a show and give them a performance they won’t forget,” said the Dominican.

*All quotes are taken from a Premier Boxing Champions press release.