Dalton Smith will defend his WBC light-welterweight title for the first time against Alberto Puelo

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

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

Smith became world champion for the first time in January Stunning stop by Subriel Matias in New York.

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

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

“It was obviously disappointing to get injured when I was in such a good place, especially after all the hard work going into camp.

“But injuries are part of boxing. The important thing is that I took the time to recover properly, listened to the doctor’s advice and now I’m back in training, feeling strong and ready to go again.”

Meanwhile, Britain’s Ben Whittaker will aim to secure the light-heavyweight title when he takes on Australia’s Conor Wallace.

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

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 September 19.

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