Smith had success as an amateur boxer in New Zealand, winning Otago and Dunedin titles, and moved to Australia in 1907 to pursue a professional career.
[1] He became the heavyweight champion of Australia, and travelled to the United States looking for a shot at the world title.
[1] On his return to Australia he beat Bill Lang to win the Commonwealth heavyweight title.
[2][3][4] He was also announced to play the lead in a film called An Australian Hero and the Red Spiders which may not have been made.
[1] Dave was the 2009 Inductee for the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame Old Timers category.