Boxing: Dalton Smith deserves WBC title shot despite Subriel Matias’ failed test – Eddie Hearn

Promoter Eddie Hearn hopes Dalton Smith will fight for a world title after the Briton’s bout with WBC light-welterweight champion Subriel Matias was thrown into jeopardy.

Matias and Smith were set to meet on 10 January in New York, but the Puerto Rican has tested positive for a banned substance.

The WBC confirmed it had received notification from the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (Vada) “regarding an adverse finding”.

Matchroom’s Hearn, who promotes undefeated Smith, 28, said the situation is “a mess” but is still hopeful the Sheffield fighter will get his chance.

“The WBC will probably say to me that it should be Dalton against next in line,” Hearn told the 5 Live Boxing with Steve Bunce podcast.

“I do believe in contamination but what I want more than anything is for it to be dealt with swiftly.

“Hopefully Dalton Smith will get the opportunity. Put Matias in recess and give him his due process.”

Matias and his team are yet to publicly comment on reports he tested positive for ostarine, but the WBC said a formal investigation has been launched and he is fully co-operating.

The 33-year-old has until 1 December to request for a B sample to be tested.

Matias beat Alberto Puello to win the belt via majority decision in July.

Puello’s team asked the WBC for an immediate rematch but the sanctioning body rejected those appeals and said Matias had to defend against mandatory challenger Dalton.

“The WBC said the winner of Dalton v Matias would fight Puello, so you’d think it will be Dalton against [Puello] for the vacant title and Matias can fight the winner if he comes back cleared,” Hearn said.

“It’s a bit of a mess but we want to make sure Dalton gets his opportunity.”