Only Thing Deadlier Than Smith’s Hands Is (Apparently) Her Chapstick

Per Haljestam-USA TODAY Sports

Bellator 233: “Salter vs. van Steenis” takes place this weekend (Fri., Nov. 8, 2019) at WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Okla., streaming live online via DAZN. Two Middleweights collide in the main event as John Salter (16-4) and Costello van Steenis (12-1) each look to improve their standing behind Rafael Lovato Jr. for a future title shot.

Speaking of future title shots, “The Peacemaker” Leslie Smith (11-7-1) is currently on a three-fight win streak, including her promotional debut at Bellator 224. Coincidentally that fight was in the exact same venue as her next bout this Friday against Arlene Blencowe (12-7). As physically and mentally durable as Smith is, she’ll have to redouble those efforts against “Angerfist” if she wants to move into Featherweight title contention. Blencowe has knockouts in 58 percent (seven of 12) of her wins, including her last two in a row. Either one will get in line behind Cyborg to face Julia Budd, but that’s not such a bad place to be.

Smith recently spoke with Smith about returning to WinStar for another Bellator bout at 145 pounds and the curious fact she won her last outing by majority (not unanimous) decision.