RIYADH, Saudia Arabia (November 12, 2024) –- World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) confidently puts his title belt on the line this Saturday in an intriguing unification fight against World Boxing Organization (WBO) Champion Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs), headlining the inaugural “Latino Night” in the 12-round main event as part of Riyadh Season, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Ramirez vs. Smith-Billam will be streamed live on DAZN as well as broadcast for free on several television networks around the world.

No shade, all respect is what Ramirez has for his British opponent, Billam-Smith.

“Chris Billam-Smith is a World Champion for a reason,” Ramirez said. “He brings a well-rounded mix of power, resilience and technical skill into the ring. His physical strength is a key weapon, allowing him to break-down opponents with heavy body shots and powerful punches. Technically, Billam-Smith uses his jab and footwork effectively to control the pace and distance of the fight, often dictating the action. His stamina is another strong asset, enabling him to sustain pressure throughout the later rounds.

“I expect a tough, challenging fight against him. He has a lot of heart in the ring. I know he brings his best every time, and I don’t take anything for granted. I’ve prepared for a hard battle, and I respect what he brings as a fighter.”

Ramirez is 7-1 in world title fights, Smith-Billam is 3-0. They’ve fought no common opponents.

Since he moved up to fight in the cruiserweight division only 13 months ago, “Zurdo” has made it known that his ultimate goal in boxing is to unify the world cruiserweight titles, if possible, before moving up again in weight.

“My main focus is to become the Undisputed World Cruiserweight Champion before moving up again,” he explained. “Before the heavyweight division, though, I’d also like to get the Bridgerweight belt. But Saturday’s fight has a lot on the line and it’s going to be very challenging. Chris Billam-Smith has all my respect, and I expect him to bring his best that night. I’ve prepared for war and will leave everything I have in the ring to have my hand raised in victory.”

Fighting out of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, Zurdo was the first Mexican to capture the world super middleweight title in 2016, and he duplicated that achievement last March, dethroning previously undefeated WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-1, 19 KOs) in Inglewood, California. Unifying the World Cruiserweight title would be another Mexican boxing first for “Zurdo” Ramirez.

INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event company led by 2-time World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set a new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

LOS ANGELES (October 30, 2024) – Former pro heavyweight contender Malik Scott has successfully transitioned from fighter to trainer, and he will be working the corner of reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) for his November 16th unification fight with World Boxing Organization (WBO) titleholder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The 44-year-old Scott, who will assist Ramirez’ head trainer Julian Chua, passionately believes that not only will Ramirez defeat Smith, but Zurdo is the No. 1 cruiserweight in the world as well. Scott was Ramirez’ head trainer when Chua was unavailable for Ramirez’ debut as a cruiserweight (October 7, 2023), in which he defeated former world light heavyweight champion Joe Smith, Jr. (28-4) in a dominant performance by way of a 10-round unanimous decision, winning all but one round on all three of the judges’ scorecards.

Scott and Chua are “in house” trainers at the state-of-the-art Brickhouse Boxing Club in North Hollywood, California.

“Julian is one of the brightest trainers in boxing,” Scott said. “I enjoy learning from him. I had Zurdo for his fight with Joe Smith and he had a good performance. I really enjoy working with him. No disrespect to Smith-Billam, but this fight is a mismatch. Zurdo is a big, strong southpaw who has fought a higher level of opponents than Smith-Billam. Zurdo is a good body puncher who throws punches from incredible angles, and he has an incredible boxing mind. Smith-Billam is big, strong and he keeps coming forward, but he is a one-trick pony. He does have a good trainer (Shane McGuigan), but I think Zurdo takes over in the second half of the fight. And Zurdo has a Dream Team in his corner. I think he will become the undisputed world champion and only Jay Opetaia can give him a fight.”

A product of the fighting city of Philadelphia, Scott was a decorated U.S. amateur boxer (70-3), highlighted by his gold-medal performance at the 1999 National AAU Championships. He went on to have a solid 15-year professional career, which ended in 2016 with a 38-3-1 (13 KOs) record.

Scott has always studied the sport of boxing and gives it his all every day. There’s no idol worshipping for him, and he takes pride in teaching young boxers.

“A great trainer teaches boxers the why’s and how’s,” Scott explained. “A good trainer just gives instructions. I believe in teaching for a good reason. I study fighters, their styles, and habits, and I go as far as studying the opponent’s corner to learn how they work during a fight. I think everybody working corners should be mic-ed up. I’m confident and want people to hear my advice.”

Scott learned from Fred Jenkins back in Philadelphia and he has studied other trainers such as Barry Robinson, Joe Goossen, and Emanuel Steward, among others. Scott was head trainer for Deantay Wilder for his third fight with Tyson Fury. In addition to assisting Chua with Zurdo, they also team, respectively, as head and assistant trainers of world super flyweight title challenger John “Scrappy” Ramirez (13-1, 9 KOs). They aren’t related but Zurdo is like a big brother and role model for “Scrappy.”

“’Scrappy’ is going to be world champion,” Scott predicted. “His day is coming!”

Malik Scott is literally and figuratively in Zurdo Ramirez’ corner.

LOS ANGELES (October 28, 2024) –- Reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-21, 30 KOs) is extremely proud to headline the inaugural “Latino Night” as part of Riyadh Season against World Boxing Organization (WBO) title holder Chris “The Gentleman” Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) on November 16^th in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Ramirez vs. Smith-Billam will be streamed live on DAZN as well as broadcast for free on several television networks around the world.

Fighting out of Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico, Zurdo was the first Mexican to capture the world super middleweight title in 2016, and he repeated that feat in the cruiserweight title last March, capturing the 200-pound division’s crown by dethroning previously undefeated WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Arsen “Feroz” Goulamirian (27-1, 19 KOs) in Inglewood, California.

“Headlining “Latino Night” is a huge honor for me,” Ramirez said. “It’s a special opportunity to connect with the Latino community and celebrate such as rich culture through my performance. The energy, passion, and pride that come with events like this are something I’m really excited about. What makes it even more special is the chance to blend and cross cultures, especially with Saudi Arabia, where I’ve also drawn a lot of inspiration. Bringing together these vibrant traditions creates a unique experience, and I’m proud to represent both sides on a night like this. And hopefully in the near future, the Excellency can visit my hometown, Mazatlan, Sinaloa, Mexico.

“I’m incredibly excited about what Turki Alalshikh and Riyadh Season are doing for boxing. It’s amazing to see the sport growing globally, and the level of support and passion they’re bringing to the table is inspiring. The opportunities they’re creating for fighters and fans alike are huge, and I’m really optimistic about what the future holds, It’s a great time to be involved in boxing, and I’m thrilled to be part of this exciting movement.

“I’m really excited about this show being on free TV because it gives me the chance to reach an even bigger audience worldwide. It’s an amazing opportunity for more people to see my journey and connect with what I do in the ring, The exposure is huge, and it’s motivating to know that people from all over the world will be turning in. I’m grateful for the platform and I’m ready to put on a show for everyone watching.”

INFORMATION:

Website: www.ZurdoPromotions.com

Facebook: /ZurdoPromotions, /GilbertoZurdoRamirez

Instagram: @zurdoramirez, @zurdopromotions

Twitter: @ZurdoPromotions, @GilbertoZurdoRamirez

ABOUT ZURDO PROMOTIONS: Headquartered in Las Vegas and Mexico, Zurdo Promotions is the premier combat sports/event company led by 2-time World Champion, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez. Zurdo Promotions strives to be the best in all areas to set the new standard in boxing. Visit us at www.ZurdoPromotions.com.

Chris Billam-Smith retained the WBO Cruiserweight title with a 12-round unanimous decision over Richard Riakporhe at Crystal Palace Stadium un London.

Billiam-Smith, 200 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG won by scores of 116-111 and 115-112 twice and is now 20-1. Riakporhe, 200 lbs of London is 17-1.

Ben Whittaker remained undefeated with a 10-round unanimous decision over Ezra Arenyeka in a light heavyweight bout.

Whittaker, 175 lbs of West Bromwhich, ENG won by scores of 100-89 and 99-90 twice and is now 8-0. Arenyeak, 175 lbs of Chesire, ENG is 12-1.

Jack Massey won a 12-round unanimous decision over Isaac Chamberlain in a cruiserweight bout.

Massey, 196 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by scores of 116-112 and 115-113 on two cards and is now 22-2. Chamberlain, 196 lbs of Brixton, ENG is 16-3.

Dan Azeez and Hrvoje Sep battled to an eight-round draw in a light heavyweight bout.

The referee score was 76-76. Azeez, 188 lbs of London is now 20-1-1. Sep, 179 lbs of Croatia is 12-2-1.

Francesca Hennessy remained undefeated with a eight-round decision over Dorota Norek in a super bantamweight bout.

Hennessy, 121 lbs of Kent, ENG won by a 77-75 score and is now 4-0. Norek, 119 lbs of Poland is 7-5.

LONDON, UK (June 14, 2023) – Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe both made weight today ahead of their WBO World Cruiserweight Title clash at Selhurst Park, home of Crystal Palace F.C, on Saturday, June 15, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Billam-Smith will be looking to avenge his only career defeat when he makes the second defence of his WBO World Title against the big punching South Londoner, while Riakporhe gets the opportunity to realise his dream of winning world honours in front of his fellow Crystal Palace fans.

With both fighters coming in on the championship limit, Billam-Smith and Riakporhe had to be prised apart by security after refusing to break an intense staredown ahead of tomorrow’s hotly anticipated world title showdown. 

An equally fiery undercard weigh-in saw clashes between Ben Whittaker and Ezra Arenyeka, who meet for the IBF International Light Heavyweight crown, and British cruiserweight rivals Isaac Chamberlain and Jack Massey, who fight for the European and Commonwealth Titles. 

OFFICIAL WEIGHTS FROM LONDON:

12×3 mins – WBO World Cruiserweight Championship

CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH – 14st 4lb / 200lb

RICHARD RIAKPORHE – 14st 4lb / 200lb

10×3 mins – IBF International Light Heavyweight Championship 

BEN WHITTAKER – 12st 7lb / 175lb

EZRA ARENYEKA – 12st 7lb / 175lb

12x3mins – European & Commonwealth Cruiserweight Championships

ISAAC CHAMBERLAIN – 14st 4lb / 200lb

JACK MASSEY – 14st 4 lb / 200lb

8×3 mins – Light Heavyweight 

DAN AZEEZ – 12st 10lb / 178lb

HRVOJE SEP – 12st 11lb / 179lb

8×2 mins – Bantamweight

FRANCESCA HENNESSEY – 8st 9lb / 121lb

DORATA NOREK – 8st 7lb / 119b

4×3 mins – Middleweight

MITCHELL FREARSON – 11st 10lb / 164lb

MARCO SIMMONDS – 11st 12lb / 156lb

4×3 mins – Cruiserweight

DEEVON MILLER – 14st 2lb / 198lb

EDWIN MOSQUERA – 14st 3lb / 199lb

4×3 mins – Heavyweight

LEWIE POCHETTY – weighing in tomorrow

TOBIE VERMEIRE – weighing in tomorrow

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash kicks-off a huge summer of sport with a blockbuster night of championship boxing and celebrations to celebrate Selhurst Park’s centenary year.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group, HELL Energy and That Prize Guy.

Final tickets available at BOXXER.com

LONDON, UK (May 17, 2024) – Isaac Chamberlain will now face Jack Massey for the vacant European and Commonwealth Cruiserweight Titles in a bet365 Wildcard contest on Saturday, June 15th at South London’s Selhurst Park stadium, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA. 

Chamberlain was set to challenge Michal Cieslak for the EBU belt, but the Pole has been forced to withdraw from their scheduled contest due to injury and has chosen to vacate his European title giving Massey a golden opportunity to step in and fight Chamberlain for the vacant strap.

Chamberlain and Massey will now square off as part of a historic night of boxing at Selhurst Park to celebrate the stadium’s centenary year.

Chamberlain (16-2, 8 KOs) was named mandatory challenger for the European crown following a dominant points victory over London rival Mikael Lawal for the British and Commonwealth Titles at York Hall in October 2023.

Massey (21-2, 12 KOs), the former IBO World Cruiserweight Champion, gets his shot at European glory having stopped Steve Eloundou Ntere inside a round last time out at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool in January.

BOXXER CEO and founder Ben Shalom said: “We now have another cruiserweight battle of Britain confirmed for our historic event at Selhurst Park as Isaac Chamberlain and Jack Massey clash for the European and Commonwealth Titles. We’d like to wish Michal Cieslak a speedy recovery. He’s been a great champion and we’re sure he will be back and in more big fights soon. This is a massive fight for both men with huge rewards for the winner and a very big addition to June 15th.”

Fans attending the huge GAME ON! show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash tops a huge bill in South London and kick-offs a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster night of world championship boxing and celebrations.

Ben Whittaker faces undefeated rival and press conference crasher Ezra Arenyeka and London Light Heavyweight star Dan Azeez returns to action alongside top bantamweight prospect Francesca Hennessy.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now and available at BOXXER.com

LONDON, UK (May 7, 2024) – Former British, Commonwealth and European Light Heavyweight Champion ‘Super’ Dan Azeez joins British boxing’s biggest event of the summer as the latest addition to BOXXER’s star-studded Selhurst Park stadium show on Saturday, June 15th, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Azeez returns to action after a thrilling twelve round clash with friend and fellow South Londoner Joshua Buatsi on February 3rd at the OVO Arena Wembley.

The Lewisham man lost a hard-fought points decision to Buatsi in a final eliminator for the WBA World Light Heavyweight Title.

Despite suffering his first career defeat, Azeez’s stock has risen following his ‘Fight Of The Year’ contender and the 34-year-old plans to waste no time in getting back into title contention and targeting the top names in the division.

Dan Azeez said: “I’m looking forward to getting back in the ring. This is my job and I wear this sport on my chest like a badge of honour. I’m ready to put the graft in like I always do to prove I belong at the top of the sport. I always aim for the top and I’m excited to be a part of a huge stadium show in South London, where I am from! Selhurst Park is going to be rocking and I’m excited to put on a show for all the fans who turn out.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “It’s great to see Dan Azeez back in the ring so quickly. I know he will have learnt a lot from such a great fight with Joshua Buatsi. He has become one of the country’s most popular fighters and I now expect him to be well equipped to go right to the top of the division.”

Fans attending the huge GAME ON! show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash tops a huge bill in South London and kick-offs a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster night of world championship boxing and celebrations.

A stacked undercard features Brixton’s Isaac Chamberlain challenging the fierce punching Pole Michal Cieslak for the European Cruiserweight crown.

Ben Whittaker faces undefeated rival and press conference crasher Ezra Arenyeka for the WBA Gold Light Heavyweight belt, plus the return of 19-year-old bantamweight starlet Francesca Hennessy.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Tickets are on sale now via BOXXER.com

LONDON, UK (April 25, 2024) – Isaac Chamberlain will challenge Polish champion Michal Cieslak for the European Cruiserweight Championship on Saturday, June 15th at Selhurst Park, the home of Crystal Palace F.C, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

SIGN UP NOW FOR ACCESS TO PRE-SALE TICKETS AT BOXXER.COM

Cieslak vs Chamberlain is the first in a series of major undercard announcements confirmed for a blockbuster night of boxing celebrating 100 years of Selhurst Park and headlined by the epic all-British world title showdown between Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe for the WBO World Cruiserweight Championship.

Chamberlain (16-2, 8 KOs) was named as mandatory challenger for Cieslak’s European crown following a dominant points victory over London rival Mikael Lawal for the British and Commonwealth Titles at York Hall in October.

The Brixton fighter will make the short trip across South London to Crystal Palace F.C’s Selhurst Park stadium for a second attempt at European glory having previously lost a points decision to Chris Billam-Smith when challenging for the belt in July 2022.

The 30-year-old will face the fierce punching Pole Cieslak (26-2, 20 KOs), a former two-time world title challenger, who captured the European Title with a knockout win over Dylan Bregeon in April 2023 and has since defended the strap with a stoppage victory over former European champion Tommy McCarthy.

Cieslak returns to London following his February 2022 battle with Lawrence Okolie for the WBO World Cruiserweight Title at the O2 Arena and is expected to bring a big Polish fanbase with him to Selhurst Park as he looks to work his way back into world title contention.

Isaac Chamberlain said: “We relinquished the British title to step up to world level. I’m grateful that this is a chance to be European Champion. This will show that I’m world class and destined to be champion of the world. A win over Cieslak puts me top five in all the governing bodies and on the cusp of a world title fight. To get this opportunity on such a big stadium event makes it even sweeter. I’m sure South London is going to turn out and Selhurst Park will be rocking on June 15th when I’m crowned the new European Champion.”

Michal Cieslak said: “My goal is to fight for the world championship again, but I am aware that defending my European title, especially against a dangerous and high rated fighter like Isaac Chamberlain brings me closer to that goal. This is another step for me to reach my dreams. If I want to be world champion, I have to win against rivals like Chamberlain.

“My debut on British soil ended in defeat, so now I will have extra motivation to get even. I’m maturing and making progress with every performance. My last fight ended quicker than I thought it would, so I’m hoping that in the showdown with Chamberlain, I’ll have the opportunity to have fun in the ring a little longer.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re excited to add another huge cruiserweight clash to what’s going to be the must-watch boxing event of the summer. It’s a massive moment for Isaac Chamberlain as looks to claim European glory at home in South London against a formidable champion in Michal Cieslak. This is the first of a series of major undercard announcements for June 15th so make sure you sign up now for access to pre-sale tickets to secure your seat for an unmissable night of boxing at Selhurst Park.”

Mick Hennessy, Manager of Isaac Chamberlain, said: “I’m over the moon for Isaac. He’s had one of the toughest journeys I’ve seen in boxing, yet he doesn’t get the respect he deserves. Young men like him are told to abandon their dreams, yet here he is in a fight that will take him one step closer to a World Title. And when he eventually wins it, it really will be a Rocky-esque story!”

Fans attending the huge GAME ON! show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash tops a huge bill in South London and kick-offs a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster night of world championship boxing and celebrations.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Ticket details to be announced shortly.

Sign up now for access to pre-sale tickets at BOXXER.com

LONDON, UK (April 23, 2024) – It’s game on for Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe in a historic all-British summer stadium world title showdown for the WBO World Cruiserweight Championship on Saturday June 15th at Selhurst Park, the home of Crystal Palace F.C, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

SIGN UP NOW FOR ACCESS TO PRE-SALE TICKETS AT BOXXER.COM

Defending champion Billam-Smith (19-1, 13 KOs) will be looking to avenge his only career defeat when he makes the second defence of his WBO World Title against big punching South Londoner and Crystal Palace fan Riakporhe (17-0, 13 KOs).

‘The Gentleman’ captured the WBO World Title in May 2023 with a memorable win over former stablemate Lawrence Okolie, downing the undefeated champion three times en route to having his hand raised in front of his home fans at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth.

Riakporhe will get his long-awaited shot at world honours in front of his fellow ‘Eagles’ as the Crystal Palace fan fights at South London’s historic Selhurst Park stadium.

‘The Midnight Train’ is the only man to hold a win over Billam-Smith in the professional ranks. The pair first squared off at the O2 Arena in July 2019 for the WBA Intercontinental Title with Riakporhe judged to have got the better of his cruiserweight rival and awarded a split decision win.

Fans attending the huge GAME ON! show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic Chris Billam-Smith vs Richard Riakporhe clash kick-offs a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster night of world championship boxing and celebrations. Undercard fights will be revealed in the coming days.

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace F.C, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping young people grow through the power of sport, inspiring them to find a better path in life and to lead a healthier life.

Chris Billam-Smith said: “I’m looking forward to giving the Bournemouth fans an away day to remember with an explosive performance, live on Sky Sports. Richard is a good fighter, but I’ve improved hugely since we last met and he’s going to be in for a terrible night at Selhurst Park. The WBO belt is coming back with me to Bournemouth.”

Richard Riakporhe said: “My time has come. The countdown is on. I’m the runaway ‘Midnight Train’ that you cannot stop and it’s the end of the line for Chris Billam-Smith. I can’t wait to knock Chris out and take his title. I’ve beaten him once and I’m ready to do it again. This time it’s not going to the judges. He’s going to be out cold on the canvas and the world title is going to be staying in South London.

“It’s going to be an incredible feeling to fight at Selhurst Park in front of the Palace fans and to be part of a special moment for the club celebrating 100 years since the stadium opened. I’m proud to be from South London and be affiliated with a club like Crystal Palace. The support of the club and the fans means everything to me. I’m going to repay that support with a devastating performance on June 15th.”

BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom said: “We’re delighted to be working with Steve Parish and the team at Crystal Palace F.C to deliver a historic night of boxing at Selhurst Park as part of the stadium’s centenary celebrations. We have a huge main event with Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe going toe-to-toe for the WBO World Cruiserweight Title in this summer showdown.

“Chris Billam-Smith has huge support on the south coast, and we expect the AFC Bournemouth faithful to travel in huge numbers to support him as he puts his WBO World Title on the line against the only man to beat him. It’s a dream come true for Richard Riakporhe as he gets his World Title shot in front of his fellow Crystal Palace fans at Selhurst Park. With more big fight announcements to follow, this is the event in British Boxing not to miss this summer.”

Crystal Palace Chairman Steve Parish said: “We are absolutely delighted that professional boxing is returning to Selhurst Park, with one of south London’s own and big Palace fan, Richard Riakporhe, leading the billing alongside Chris Billam-Smith.

“Boxxer have put together a fantastic line-up for the occasion, and it already promises to be a spectacular night in SE25 – as well as a fitting tribute to our stadium’s centenary year.”

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Integritas Property Group and HELL Energy.

Ticket details to be announced shortly.

Sign up now for access to pre-sale tickets at BOXXER.com

12×3 mins – WBO World Cruiserweight Championship

CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH  – 14st 3lbs / 199lbs

MATEUSZ MASTERNAK – 14st 2 lbs / 198lbs

8×3 mins – Light Heavyweight Contest

BEN WHITTAKER – 12st 6lbs / 174lbs

STIVEN LEONETTI DREDHAJ – 12st 8lbs / 176lbs

8×2 mins – Welterweight Contest

LAUREN PRICE – 10st 6 lbs / 146lbs

SILVA BORTOT – 10st 2lbs 5oz / 142lbs

10×3 mins – Vacant English Super Welterweight Championship

LEE CUTLER – 10st 13lbs / 153lbs

KINGSLEY EGBUNIKE – 10st 12lbs / 152lbs

10×3 mins – Vacant WBC Silver International Welterweight Championship

MICHAEL MCKINSON – 10st 6lbs / 146lbs

MUSAH LAWSON – 10st 3 lbs / 143lbs

6×2 mins – Bantamweight Contest

FRANCESCA HENNESSY – 8st 8lbs / 120lbs

LUCRECIA BELEN ARRIETA – 8st 7lbs / 119lbs

6×3 mins – Light Heavyweight Contest

LEWIS EDMONDSON – 12st 12lbs / 180lbs

DMYTRO FEDAS – 12st 13lbs / 181lbs

RETURN OF THE KING: Chris Billam-Smith vs Mateusz Masternak takes place on Sunday, December 10 at the Bournemouth International Centre and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and Who Dares Gyms.

BOURNEMOUTH, UK (December 8, 2023) – Chris Billam-Smith and Mateusz Masternak exchanged words at the final pre-fight press conference today ahead of their WBO World Cruiserweight Title clash at the Bournemouth International Centre on Sunday, December 10, live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

A sold-out crowd awaits local hero Billam-Smith, who having realised his dream by winning the WBO World Title with a victory over Lawrence Okolie at the Vitality Stadium in May returns to Bournemouth for his first defence against the Polish powerhouse Masternak.

Masternak, who has shared the ring with many of the top names in the cruiserweight division throughout his impressive 52-fight career and who holds more knockout wins than Billam-Smith has had fights, will be aiming to spoil the champion’s homecoming party and fulfil his own world title ambition.

A stacked undercard features 2020 Olympic Medallists Ben Whittaker, who takes on Stiven Leonetti Dredhaj, and Lauren Price, who faces former European Champion Silvia Bortot, with both fighters looking to continue their rapid rise towards title contention.

Lee Cutler contests the vacant English Super Welterweight Title against Kingsley ‘Obi’ Egbunike in a potentially show stealing scrap, Michael McKinson and Musah Lawson battle for the WBC International Silver Welterweight belt, Lewis Edmondson returns against Dmytro Fedas and Francesca Hennessy faces Lucrecia Bellen Arrieta in her second pro bout.

PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES:

CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH:

“The dream was always to win the World Title at the Bournemouth Stadium and I got the opportunity to do that. Before that, we fought for years to get shows down here – and now we’ve had four back-to-back. We’ve got a great time with BOXXER and Sky Sports, we did our part to make it happen, and of course the fans who have turned out to create the amazing atmospheres that everyone loves. I can’t wait to walk out on Sunday as defending champion.

“People don’t have the time of their life, and then give up on life. That’s not how it works. For me, I’m a proud champion. Now I want to cement that legacy and on Sunday night, walking out in front of that crowd gives me goosebumps just thinking about it.

“As long as Masternak’s career has been, as many big fights as he’s had – I don’t think he would have ever experienced an atmosphere like this.”

MATEUSZ MASTERNAK:

“My journey in boxing has been going on for a long time. I believe the preparation for this fight has been magical. I believe on December 10th, the WBO belt will be mine.

“I had a deal with my wife. If I wanted a third baby, I had to become World Champion. Now my daughter is 5, so I have to keep my promise.”

BEN WHITTAKER:

“This year’s been a bit of a nuisance, a bit stop and start, but Sunday I’m back at it and in 2024 we’re going to really get the ball rolling again.

“There’s many things I can show on Sunday. I’ve showboated, I’ve done this, I’ve done that. I could just come in, break him down, and get out of there – who knows, we’ll see on Sunday.

“We’ve sparred. I asked for 8, and he left after 6.

“Sunday will be called The Italian Job.  Hopefully he’s not fearful because that’ll make for a better fight. I want him to come and bring the fight and try and bring something out of me that no-one else has. After I beat him on Sunday, we look on to 2024.”

LAUREN PRICE:

“This is a step up again. I’m a completely different fighter to Mayer and I think I’ll prove that on Sunday. I know Sylvia. She’s game, she’s tough, but I believe I’m a level above and I plan to have another solid performance on Sunday, then push on for a big 2024.

“In my last performance, I boxed a girl with an 18-1 record with 10 knock outs. In each fight I’ve stepped up and importantly this year I’ve stayed active. This is my 6th pro fight, and my 4th fight this year. When I’m active and I’ve been in the gym is when I’m at my best. I want to keep this momentum and put on a great performance on Sunday to show what I’m about. I want the winner of Mayer and Jonas in 2024.”

BEN SHALOM, BOXXER Founder and CEO:

“What a journey. To be defending the World Title back in Bournemouth is pretty incredible. We looked at this as simply a great fight.

“Sometimes watching Chris Billam-Smith as a promoter, you think ‘be a bit smarter, be a bit cleverer, don’t take the shots’, but he knows only one way. He gives us entertainment every single time. After the last performance, we wanted a great fight.

“Masternak has done the same throughout his career. He’s never fought for a World Title before which is remarkable to think about. To only have two losses on his record in 57 is special.

“I’m expecting a great fight. I know Masternak has been preparing for this for a long time. His team are ready for this. They believe this is their moment, but Chris wants to show that he’s world level and he’s here to stay at world level, to stay as world champion. This is the moment where he proves his dominance of the division.”

RETURN OF THE KING: Chris Billam-Smith vs Mateusz Masternak takes place on Sunday, December 10 at the Bournemouth International Centre and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and Who Dares Gyms.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND (November 23, 2023) – The stage is set for another unmissable night of boxing in Bournemouth as local hero Chris Billam-Smith makes a triumphant return to defend his WBO World Cruiserweight Title against Mateusz Masternak on Sunday, December 10^th live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Billam-Smith captured the WBO crown in May with a fairytale victory over countryman Lawrence Okolie in front of a record-breaking crowd at the Vitality Stadium, home of his beloved A.F.C. Bournemouth.

‘The Gentleman’ will make the first defence of his title at the Bournemouth International Centre against Polish powerhouse Masternak, who returns to the UK for the first time since his 2015 European championship war with Tony Bellew.

And fans have even more to look forward to with the full undercard revealed for the sold-out, south coast show.

As previously confirmed, 2020 Olympic Gold Medallist Lauren Price will face former European Champion Silvia Bortot. Having made history earlier this year by becoming the first female to win a British title, Price (5-0, 1 KO) will be aiming to end 2023 with a statement win against Italy’s Bortot (11-3-1, 3 KOs), who previously went the distance with former unified world champion Mikael Mayer.

Fellow 2020 Olympic Medallist Ben Whittaker has an opponent set for his hugely-anticipated return to the ring. Future boxing superstar Whittaker (4-0, 3 KOs), who has been wowing crowds around the country with his flamboyant and unorthodox style, returns to the scene of his spectacular pro debut to take on Stiven Leonetti Dredhaj (11-2-1, 3 KOs).

Having impressed on previous visits to Bournemouth, Michael McKinson (25-1, 4 KOs) will make the short trip from Portsmouth to take his place on the undercard. The 29-year-old southpaw stopped Lebin Morales last time out at Vitality Stadium and will be hoping a similar victory can set him up for a title run in 2024.

Following his victory over Stanley Stannard in an official eliminator bout during BOXXER’s visit to Bournemouth in May, Lee Cutler (13-1, 7 KOs) will face Obi Egbunike (8-2-1, 1 KO) for the vacant English Super Welterweight Title in a potential show-stealing 50-50 clash.

Southampton light heavyweight Lewis Edmondson (7-0, 3 KOs) joins the bill as he looks to extend his unbeaten record against Dmytro Fedas (8-4-2, 5 KOs). ‘The Saint’ claimed his seventh pro win with a technical decision victory over Petar Nosic on the undercard of Billam-Smith’s world championship winning fight in May.

And fresh from her impressive debut, 18-year-old bantamweight Francesca Hennessy (1-0, 1 KO), the daughter of renowned boxing manager and promoter Mick Hennessy, can continue the perfect start to her professional career when she gets back under the bright lights in Bournemouth.

BOXXER CEO and Founder Ben Shalom said: “The Bournemouth International Centre is going to be rocking on December 10th as we end the year with another spectacular sold-out show on the south coast. We have Olympic medallists, local stars, and some of British boxing’s hottest young talents in action. This show is a real Christmas cracker and one you do not want to miss!”

RETURN OF THE KING: Chris Billam-Smith vs Mateusz Masternak takes place on Sunday, December 10^th at the Bournemouth International Centre and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA. Tickets for the year-ending, south coast show are already sold out.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and Who Dares Gyms.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND (November 21, 2023) – 2020 Olympic gold medallist Lauren Price MBE will face Silvia Bortot on the undercard of Chris Billam-Smith’s WBO World Cruiserweight Title defence against Mateusz Masternak on Sunday, December 10th live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA.

Price (5-0, 1 KO) is on a fast-track to World Title success following a glittering amateur career. Having made history earlier this year by becoming the first female to win a British title, ‘The Lucky One’, will be aiming to end 2023 with a statement win against Bortot (11-3-1, 3 KOs).

The Italian is a former EBU European Super Lightweight Champion who went the distance with former Unified World Champion Mikaela Mayer in Manchester in September, the same night Price secured her fifth pro-victory against Lolita Muzeya.

Price knows a victory can put her in the mix for big fights at welterweight including a showdown with the winner of the upcoming IBF World Title contest between BOXXER stablemate Natasha Jonas and Mikaela Mayer.

“I’m looking forward to December 10th and continuing my progression by finishing the year with a good win to take me into 2024,” said Price. “Bortot is a good opponent, she’s game and tough like them all but I believe I’m the bigger, stronger and better boxer. She boxed Mayer in her last fight and gave her a good ten rounds so she will be a good step up. There are some great female fights coming up and I believe next year I will be involved in the big fights.”

“Lauren is an exceptional talent and one of the future stars of this sport,” said BOXXER Founder and CEO Ben Shalom. “She is already closing in on World Titles and in just her sixth fight is taking another step up on December 10th. 2024 can be a massive year for her but first she must overcome a tough test against Silvia Bortot.”

Price joins fellow Olympic medallist Ben Whittaker (4-0, 3 KOs) in action in Bournemouth. Whittaker has got off to a blistering start to his career since turning professional in the wake of his 2020 silver medal glory, wowing crowds around the country with his flamboyant and unorthodox style. The 26-year-old is returning to the south coast, where he made his professional debut, and is looking to end the year on a high with another memorable performance.

Fans can also look forward to a potential show-stealing showdown between Bournemouth’s Lee Cutler (13-1, 7 KOs) and Kingsley Egbunike (8-2-1, 1 KO) for the vacant English Super Welterweight Title.

RETURN OF THE KING: Chris Billam-Smith vs Mateusz Masternak takes place on Sunday, December 10th at the Bournemouth International Centre and will be broadcast live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland and Peacock in the USA. Tickets for the year-ending BOXXER show are already sold out.

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE, Integritas Property Group and Who Dares Gyms.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – (November 6th, 2023) – Future boxing superstar Ben Whittaker is back in action next month as he joins the BOXXER: RETURN OF THE KING card in Bournemouth on Sunday, December 10th, headlined by WBO World Cruiserweight Champion Chris Billam-Smith defending his title against Mateusz Masternak and airing live and exclusively on Sky Sports in the UK and Peacock in the USA.

Whittaker has got off to a blistering start to his career since turning professional in the wake of his 2020 Olympic Games silver medal glory, wowing crowds around the country with his flamboyant and unorthodox style.

Now the 26-year-old is returning to the south coast, where he made his professional debut, and is looking to end the year on a high with another memorable performance to set the stage for a massive 2024. 

Whittaker was aiming to fight in his hometown on November 18th as part of the BOXXER: WOLVES AT THE DOOR card but rehabilitation on a couple of niggling injuries, which have kept him out of the ring since July, have delayed his return until December. 

“I’m looking forward to getting back to it. You already know what I bring so make sure you tune in on December 10th as I’ll be closing the year with another surgical performance,” said Whittaker. 

Ben Shalom, BOXXER founder and CEO, said, “Ben Whittaker is such an electrifying talent, I think fans would have him on every card if they could. We had a busy year lined up for him but he’s had some minor injuries to deal with following his fight in July. I’m excited to say he’s now fully fit and raring to go. On December 10th, fans are going to get another chance to see one of the boxing world’s biggest talents live in action ahead of what’s going to be a monumental 2024 for Ben.”

BOXXER: RETURN OF A KING takes place Sunday, December 10th in Bournemouth and sees hometown hero Chris ‘The Gentleman’ Billam-Smith (18-1, 12 KO’s) make the first defence of his WBO World Cruiserweight Championship against Polish powerhouse Mateusz Masternak (47-5, 31 KO’s) – a former European and IBF and WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight Champion currently ranked #5 in the world by the WBO and #9 by the WBC.

A title shot has also been confirmed for Bournemouth’s Lee Cutler (13-1, 7 KO’s) following his victory over Stanley Stannard in an official eliminator bout during BOXXER’s visit to the Vitality Stadium in May. Cutler will face Londoner Kingsley Egbunike (8-2-1, 1 KO) for the vacant English Super-Welterweight Championship as part of an action-packed undercard with more fights to be announced soon. 

Fans can also now sign up to the Ben Whittaker Fan Club to be first to receive the latest Ben Whittaker news and fight announcements plus priority access to tickets for his fights.

London, England – (November 1, 2023) – WBO world cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith came face to face with today with Polish powerhouse Mateusz Masternak, the man who aims to dethrone him when they meet in the main event of BOXXER: RETURN OF THE KING in Bournemouth on Sunday, December 10th,live on Sky Sports.

Currently ranked No 5 with the WBO, the experienced Masternak (47-5, 31 KO’s) rides a six-fight win streak into the world title shot he has long been pressing for. The December clash will see him return to the UK for the first time since his 2015 European championship battle with Tony Bellew. 

Three of his last six victories have been secured by knockout, including a fourth-round stoppage of Armend Xhoxhaj from Albania, who previously went five rounds with Billam-Smith last year.

Having sold out the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC) twice before, Billam-Smith is set for a third sell-out in December as he competes for the first time since May, where he triumphed over Lawrence Okolie in front of a packed Vitality Stadium, home of his beloved Bournemouth AFC.

“We’re so excited to be going back to Bournemouth. Everyone gets behind Chris Billam-Smith, it’s something to behold. He’s possibly the biggest star in the cruiserweight division right now in terms of the crowds he draws and now he’s on the world stage. It’s been an unbelievable journey. Tickets have flown out and we’re looking forward to a great event with a serious test against Mateusz Masternak,” said Ben Shalom, BOXXER CEO.

Chris Billam-Smith on Masternak:

“He does everything very well. He’s the most well rounded fighter I will have faced to date. He‘s very well rounded and has no obvious weaknesses. I think stylistically we are very similar in a lot of areas and I think it will be a great fight. It will be an entertaining fight, our styles will mesh really well.

“The venue channels sound so well and you have thousands of Bournemouth fans in there singing their hearts out. That kind of atmosphere is actually what first inspired me to go into boxing and I am just so lucky to have the support that I do.”

Mateusz Masternak on Chris Billam-Smith:

“I’ve been waiting for 17 years to get a world title shot. It’s been a long journey with a lot of ups and downs but now I am ready to take a belt. I’ve been very patient but the wait is almost over. Chris has heart but he’s not faced anyone with my experience and my toughness. 

“There’s a large Polish community in the area and even though it’s Chris Billam-Smith’s territory, I will have some support in there as well. It’s going to be a good night.” 

Shane McGuigan, trainer of Chris Billam-Smith

“I think it’s going to be a great fight for as long as it lasts. I can see the two of them hurting each other but I don’t think he’s boxed anyone as quick as Chris in terms of the short range combinations Chris does.” 

“It’s going to be one of those fights that has you on the edge of your seat. Masternak is very well seasoned, he’s got power, he takes a decent shot, he’s well-rounded – we rate him highly. Viewers are in for a treat.”

===

Tickets are almost sold out for BOXXER: RETURN OF THE KING on Sunday December 10th, with the final remaining tickets having gone on general sale at midday today. 

Billam-Smith won the WBO World Cruiserweight Championship in May when he dominated former training partner turned rival Lawrence Okolie over twelve rounds at the Vitality Stadium, bringing to fruition a boyhood dream to fight in the stadium of his beloved Bournemouth AFC.

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – (October 24th, 2023) – An early Christmas cracker will be delivered to the Bournemouth beachfront on Sunday, December 10th as cruiserweight king Chris ‘The Gentleman’ Billam-Smith (18-1, 12 KO’s) makes the first defence of his WBO World Cruiserweight Championship.

Polish powerhouse Mateusz Masternak (47-5, 31 KO’s) – a former European  and IBF and WBA Intercontinental Cruiserweight Champion currently ranked #5 in the world by the WBO and #9 by the WBC – challenges Billam-Smith in a championship bout which headlines the BOXXER card taking place at the Bournemouth International Centre and airs live and exclusively on Sky Sports.

Returning to the UK for the first time since his 2015 European championship war with Tony Bellew, Masternak rides a six-fight win streak into the bout. Three of those wins have come by KO, one of them a fourth-round stoppage of Albania’s Armend Xhoxhaj, who went five rounds with Billam-Smith last year. 

Having sold out the BIC on two previous occasions, December will mark Billam-Smith’s third time headlining Bournemouth’s largest indoor arena and his first contest since May, when he beat Lawrence Okolie in front of a capacity crowd at the Vitality Stadium.

And ahead of his maiden world title defence, Billam-Smith has committed his future to BOXXER by signing a new extended deal with the next-gen promoter, which includes a commitment to rematch Lawrence Okolie if he remains champion.

That event was the biggest boxing event in South Coast history and Billam-Smith’s return to action in December will be a triumphant year-end homecoming. Grateful for the years of loyal support, the champion requested the Sunday slot in order to allow travelling Bournemouth AFC fans to return from Saturday’s away game.

“Mateusz Masternak is a superb fighter, he’s proved that throughout his career. He’s got double the amount of fights that I have – he’s actually got more KO wins than I have fights – and his only losses are at the very top level. His style matches well with mine and I think it’s going to be a very exciting fight, I’m really looking forward to it,” said Billam-Smith.

Masternak said, “I think Chris Billam-Smith is a very good boxer. He showed his warrior soul in his last fight and proved that he deserves to be champion. I have a lot of respect for him in that way, but I believe more in my skills and my experience. I’ve been dreaming of the world championship since I started boxing. My boxing journey has been like a movie, all the highs and lows. I hope in December we get the best scene. I’m looking forward to fighting in England again, the fans create a great atmosphere there.“

BOXXER founder and CEO Ben Shalom said, “Chris Billam-Smith wanted his first defence of the WBO World Cruiserweight Championship to be a big crowd-pleaser of a fight in his home town. Mateusz Masternak ticks all the boxes; he’s ranked number five in the world, he’s got a ton of experience and he rarely takes a backwards step. He’s a very dangerous opponent and Billam-Smith is taking a serious risk here. 

“Anyone who has ever experienced a BOXXER event at the Bournemouth International Centre will know just how crazy the atmosphere gets in there and I think this one will take that to a new level, the crowd are going to raise the roof. We’re ending the year with a guaranteed Christmas cracker and I can’t wait.”

TICKETING INFORMATION:

Pre-Sale opens Monday October 30th 

General Sale opens Wednesday November 1st 

This event is presented in association with official partners bet365, Everlast, WOW HYDRATE.

Bournemouth, England – 27th May 2023 – Chris Billam-Smith took a majority decision victory (112-112, 116-107, 115-108) over Lawrence Okolie to become the WBO Cruiserweight World Champion in front of 15,000 hometown fans at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth and live on Sky Sports.

A sold-out Vitality Stadium were totally behind Chris Billam-Smith and provided an unparalleled atmosphere for all 36 minutes of the fight. With three knockdowns, a new world champion, and an electric atmosphere, this was a night of breathtaking boxing action that will never be forgotten.

Okolie looked confident from the first bell, despite the seriously hostile Bournemouth crowd, catching Billam-Smith with a solid right hand in the first round that stunned Billam-Smith a little bit and forced him to be more cautious.

The fight continued on a similar path, with Okolie throwing big rights and holding when necessary until Billam-Smith through a perfect looping counter-left hook to knock Okolie down in the 4th round, and unloading for the rest of the round hunting for a stoppage but failing to find it.

Points off in the 5th and 7th, and another knockdown by Billam-Smith in the 10th, meant Okolie went into the final two rounds hunting for a stoppage.

Okolie gave everything in the last two rounds to find that stoppage, opening himself up to another knockdown in the 11th. Billam-Smith then held on for those last three minutes of the 12th and final round to take the victory.

Billam-Smith said to Sky Sports after the fight: “I don’t know what just happened. My whole lifes come to this moment. It’s just perfect. In front of these fans, against a great champion in Lawrence Okolie, it doesn’t get better than this.”

Okolie said to Sky Sports after the fight: “I accept the decision. He did great work in there. He got a knockdown that changed the momentum of the fight and he did enough to win it. I can adapt to a loss and I’ll be back again.”

Televised Card Results:

Chris Billam-Smith def. Lawrence Okolie – MD (112-112, 116-107, 115-108)

Sam Eggington def. Joe Pigford – TKO, R5 (3:00)

Karriss Artingstall def. Jade Taylor – PTS (79-73)

Lee Cutler def. Stanley Stannard – PTS (97-95)

Michael McKinson def. Lebin Morales – TKO, R7 (1:25)

Full Undercard Results

Sam Eggington def. Joe Pigford – TKO, R5 (3:00)

Savage Sam Eggington showed his level of talent by totally dominating a 20-0 puncher that many people expected to knock Eggington out in Joe Pigford. Eggington outworked Pigford from the first bell, moving more and throwing a lot more punches with much greater speed.

Pigford did throw some shots with his trademark power, but Eggington looked on a higher level of boxing ability, and Pigford didn’t seem to have any answers to deal with Eggington’s speed and movement.

Eggington rocked Pigford in the final seconds of the fifth round with a lightning fast right hand, and followed it up with an inch-perfect left hook that sent Pigford reeling back into the ropes. Eggington took this opportunity to pounce on Pigford, unleashing a barbaric flurry of hooks that forced the referee to stop the fight in the rival final seconds of the round as Pigford’s corner also through the towel in.

Sam Eggington said to Sky Sports after the fight: “I think I had experience in the build up to the fight. I think the build up got him nervous, and that showed in the ring. I was just totally calm, whereas he had that jitteryness. I know I’ve been in the sport a long time, but I’m in my prime right now. I’m doing the best work of my career and I’m here to win belts.”

Karriss Artingstall def. Jade Taylor – PTS 79-73

Tokyo 2020 Olympic Bronze Medalist Karriss Artingstall commanded the ring for 8 rounds to take the 4th victory of her young professional career against an undefeated, highly-touted opponent in Jade Taylor. Artingstall outmanoeuvred Taylor from the southpaw position throughout the fight, using her long reach to fire off big straight left hands right through the centre of Taylor’s guard.

Taylor did find some success in the middle rounds of the fight, leaning away from Artingstall’s potentially devastating left hands and then throwing well-timed countershots, but Artingstall adapted to this intelligently, forcing Taylor back into the ropes with intelligent pressure so Taylor had no way to avoid Artingstall’s offense.

Karriss Artingstall is flying in the professional ranks, climbing at great speed and looks set to fight for World Championship glory in the fast-moving world of Women’s boxing very soon.

Karriss Artingstall said to Sky Sports after the fight: “I’m stepping up in quality every fight but my performance there was terrible, I was falling on my backhand a bit, I should have focused on my jab a bit more. I’ll have to watch it back, I know I was falling short, I’m a bit disappointed but I got the win.”

Lee Cutler def. Stanley Stannard – PTS (97-95)

Bournemouth’s own Lee Cutler put on a career-best performance in front of his hometown fans to take a comfortable points victory and move to 13-1 in his professional career against an undefeated opponent in Stanley Stannard, who came into the fight a slight favourite with the bookies, reflecting the magnitude of Cutler’s victory.

Cutler controlled the fight from the first round, managing the distance and the exchanges to perfection, going into the final rounds of the fight knowing he would comfortably take victory. The first few rounds had a relatively slow pace, as both men found their range and settled into the fight, but Cutler looked more confident by the second. The middle rounds were all Cutler as he consistently was able to win the exchanges with Stannard, despite picking up a few cuts.

Stannard did find more success later in the fight, and closed up the referee’s scorecard as a result, but without a stoppage it was clear that would not be enough. This was arguably the best win of Cutler’s career and he looks set to challenge some of the top names in the domestic scene at 154lbs very soon.

Lee Cutler said to Sky Sports after the fight: “I thought I won that fight easily, he didn’t really land a shot on me at all to be honest. This is no-one’s night but Chris Billam-Smith’s, I’m just fortunate to be able to fight on it.”

Michael McKinson def. Lebin Morales – TKO, R7 (1:25)

Top British Welterweight Michael McKinson made a huge statement with only the 4th stoppage victory of his 26 fight professional career. McKinson rode roughshot over Lebin Morales, knocking him down in the very first round, before ruthlessly breaking him down over the next 6.

Mckinson backed his opponent against the ropes across the fight, and this started the sequence in the 7th where he found the stoppage, pinning Morales against the side of the ring and launching off a flurry of savage hooks. Morales doggedly attempted to fire back, and pushed forward as he did so, but Mckinson smartly avoided that offense while brutalising Morales with more hooks of his own.

This assault left the referee with no choice but to end the fight, and gave McKinson a formiddable victory that sets him up for huge fights against other top Welterweights very soon.

Michael McKinson said to Sky Sports after the fight: “He was trying to catch me up, but as the rounds went on I was able to catch him more and the ref had to jump in. I believe I’m a lot better than the level I’ve been fighting at, I didn’t look out of place in Texas against Ortiz, I believe I belong at that level.”

Lewis Edmundson Def. Petar Nosic – TD (50-45)

Despite the fight ending a round earlier than scheduled due to a clash of heads, Lewis Edmundson showed serious talent to move to 7-0 as a professional against an opponent in Petar Nosic who had only tasted defeat once before in his 9 fight professional career.

Edmundson dominated every exchange and controlled the fight intelligently, winning every single round before the fight’s sudden ending.

Tommy Welch Def. Amine Boucetta – PTS (59-55)

Hard-hitting Heavyweight prospect Tommy Welch took a convincing points victory over an experienced opponent in Amine Boucetta on the biggest stage of his career so far.

Welch used all his attributes to control the fight at every distance, from trading jabs at range to dominating the clinch. With the referee scoring only a single round for Boucetta, Welch will be able to return down the coast to Brighton with a seriously increased profile.

Razor Ali Def. Jonatas Oliveira – PTS (58-55)

Popular young prospect Razor Ali showed Championship-level determination to overcome being knocked down in the 2nd round to take a points victory over 6 rounds against a game opponent in Jonatas Oliveira, winning every round other than the one he was knocked down in. Ali deployed impressive punch speed and smart footwork to totally outclass Oliveira.

Full Card Results: 

Chris Billam-Smith def. Lawrence Okolie – MD (112-112, 115-108, 116-107)

Sam Eggington def. Joe Pigford, TKO, R5 (3:00)

Karriss Artingstall def. Jade Taylor, PTS (79-73)

Lee Cutler def. Stanley Stannard, PTS (97-95)

Michael McKinson def. Lebin Morales, TKO R7 (1:25)

Lewis Edmundson Def. Peter Nosic, TD (50-45)

Razor Ali Def. Jonatas Oliveira, PTS (58-55)

Tommy Welsh Def. Amine Boucetta, PTS (59-55)

Cruiserweight colleagues turned rivals Lawrence Okolie and Chris Billam-Smith came face to face today at a press conference in central London to announce their upcoming May 27th blockbuster at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth.

Chaired by BOXXER’s founder and CEO Ben Shalom alongside Sky Sports’ Andy Scott, the press conference also brought British cruiserweight Mikael Lawal and his challenger Isaac Chamberlain together, leading to heated scenes when they faced off for photographs. 

Former training partners Okolie and Billam-Smith were cordial with one another, declaring the fight to be “strictly business” for which they would set their friendship aside, though – based on their past sparring – Okolie did predict an “action-packed” encounter with “lots of punches thrown”.

Here’s a selection of quotes from today’s press conference at the luxury Landmark Hotel in London, England.

Fans can register for the ticket pre-sale at Boxxer.com

LAWRENCE OKOLIE 

I had a year out for various reasons and I came over to Boxxer to be active. I enjoy fighting against the best people. I’m not one of those fighters that talks about it, I am one of those fighters who goes out and makes it happen. It’s a quick turnaround from what people are used to but I’ve got no injuries or damage from my last fight so why not get straight back into it and keep active. 

I know what this fight means to me and what it means to Chris and I know what I am going to have to put my body through over the next few weeks. My performance against David Light was me coming back after a year off. 

Against Chris … we’ve had a lot of spars, I know what this fight is going to look like. He always has action-packed fights with a lot of punches exchanged. And actually as much as I like Chris I am looking forward to being in that type of fight.

On wanting a stoppage win despite their friendship 

I guess that’s always the aim isn’t it? Chris is someone who I respect as a person, I know him well, I love how he is with his family and I love him as a person. It’s unfortunate because I like Chris but ultimately he’s Commonwealth champion, former European champion, he’s highly-ranked and those are the type of fights I want to be in. 

On gelling with new coach SugarHill Steward

Yeah, of course. Soon as you start a new job or new area there’s going to be a learning curve. There’s going to be on lessons learned. We had 12 rounds last week so we’ve got a lot to work with and we both know what we need to work on in the gym. So I’m really excited for these next few weeks. 

CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH

Obviously when you’re in the same gym, you never expected [a fight] to happen and you never expect people to leave either but obviously he’s left [McGuigan’s Gym] now and the fight can happen. I like Lawrence,. he’s a funny guy, but he’s got something I want and, as always, it’s just business.

?I think we’ve sparred probably 300 rounds against each other. They were learning curves for both of us and we learned a lot as we built ourselves to world-level fighters , and that’s what makes this such an exciting fight. I think I’ve shown in my career that I’ve always tried to fight every champion there is. Lawrence is one of them and now we’re here.

On the fight being in Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium, home to Bournemouth AFC

It’s going to be incredible. So many memories there as a 12 year old, as a season ticket holder for years. I wanted to play for Bournemouth but my feet weren’t quite as good as my hands so I’ve found another way to make my dreams come true and get on the pitch.

SHANE McGUIGAN, TRAINER OF BILLAM-SMITH, FORMER TRAINER OF OKOLIE

It seems a bit odd [that we’re fighting] but it’s really just business. It’s nothing against Lawrence, it’s just that he’s a world champion – and he’s a domestic world champion, so that makes more sense than other fighters. ?

I don’t think his last performance was his best performance but that’s not the Lawrence Okolie that we are preparing for. We’re preparing for the best version of him. 

He’s got multiple threats: he’s 6’5, his reach is 6’9. He’s physical, he’s athletic – I believe he’s the best cruiserweight in the world right now. But for every strength there’s a weakness and I believe we will devise a plan to exploit that.

BEN SHALOM, BOXXER CEO 

This one is going to be something special, a world title. We brought the first televised boxing event to Bournemouth last summer and now we’re ready to do a world title there. That’s credit to Chris and everyone involved. 

This division right now… you’ve got Richard Riakporhe ready for his world title shot, you’ve got Chris, you’ve got Lawrence active. All these fighters are in their prime now and there’s no excuses. They all want the same thing. 

This division is stacked. We’ve got Mikael Lawal against Isaac Chamberlain in an unbelievable British title fight as well. It’s a special division and hopefully it can be an example to the rest of boxing that the best should fight the best in their prime at the right time.

MIKAEL LAWAL, BRITISH CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION

I’m happy man, I can’t wait for this fight. I felt the disrespect when he came up to me after my last fight. That was my moment and you just don’t do that. He thought he saw something in that moment but when we fight we will finally see.

He’s got some good attributes but I am going to have to expose him and show him what real boxing is about. I’m going to have to beat him up, that’s about it.

He’s definitely step up and bring the best out of me but I will just find a way to beat this guy, that’s what’s going to happen on the night.

ISAAC CHAMBERLAIN, CHALLENGER 

Rubbish. I’ve already been preparing for this fight. And I don’t know why he’s coming with this ‘disrespect’ talk because when we were there [after his last fight] it was all respect. 

So I don’t understand why he’s coming with this disrespect talk right now. But I’m very grateful for this opportunity and I’ll say even thanks to Lawal for giving me the fight.

Obviously he can punch but e everyone in the division can punch, it’s the weight we’re at. But look at the people he’s been knocking out, they’ve got like two wins and 47 losses and they’re coming on two weeks notice. This fight is a different level [for him]. 

Leigh Wood captured the WBA Featherweight title with a 12th round stoppage over Xu Can at the opening week of Fight Camp at the Matchroom HQ in Essex, England.

Wood outboxed Can over the course of the fight, and in round 12, landed a big right that sent Can to the canvas. With Can hurt, Wood landed seven unanswered punches that forced a referee stoppage at 2:43.

Wood, 125 1/2 lbs of Nottingham, ENG is now 25-2 with 15 knockouts. Can, 125 1/4 lbs of Beijing CHN is 18-3.

“It feels good you know, to get the stoppage over the line in a great and high-paced fight, the last round with six weeks’ notice, I couldn’t have done anymore,” Wood told Matchroom afterwards. 
 
“I did say in an interview that I’m going to be catching him clean and it’s not down to me how long the fight lasts, it’s down to him pretty much. I could have sustained that all night. He took some big shots, big heart, credit to him but the accumulation has its effect as well. The shot I finished him with wasn’t as big as the ones I caught him with earlier on, but they took their toll, I caught him and got the stoppage.
 
“I had belief in my power, not only do I have big power, but I know how to get it off, how to set it up and how to mix it up. That’s the biggest factor in working with Ben, Lee Wylie and Barry Smith, they’ve really changed the game for me.
 
“He definitely wasn’t throwing 120 punches a round and that’s down to the game plan. Everyone was saying how are you going to do it, what are going to do, are you going to hit him hard, are going to hold him, it was down to the game plan. Even people watching don’t understand, but that’s a conversation for another day.
 
“Hopefully the younger generations see this and think you know what, he’s done it, World Champion, British, Commonwealth, European, hopefully people decide to go pick up a pair of boxing gloves and start their journey.
 
“Ben and Lee said to me they’ve never been so confident in someone getting the tactics right as much as me going into this fight. I thought that was a big statement, I was doing everything they wanted me to do. I executed it pretty much to perfection and credit to those guys for getting it right – I just do as I’m told, and it works.
 
“I’m easy, redemption with Dickens would be great for myself. Full confidence in Ben getting my tactics right for that fight, I had a bad night that fight, first southpaw I boxed as a pro, I’d like to put that right naturally.
 
“But if there’s bigger fights, I said I wanted the Navarrete fight he’s explosive like me, that’ll be absolute fireworks. People might slate me and say it’s a regular title, let’s fight for the super title, let’s unify – I want big fights.
 
“My career was stalled earlier on. In three years I’ve been British, Commonwealth, WBO European and now World Champion. My best years are definitely to come.”

Chris Billiam-Smith won a 12-round split decision over Tommy McCarthy in a hotly contested cruiserweight bout.

In round six, McCarthy was cut over his right eye.

Billam-Smith landed 155 of 637 punches; McCarthy was 154 of 506.

Billiam-Smith won by scores of 115-114 and 116-112, while McCarthy took a card 115-114.

Billiam-Smith-199 1/2 lbs of Bournemouth, ENG is 13-1. McCarthy, 199 1/4 lbs of Belfast, NI is 18-3.

“It’s crazy, as Shane said, it’s been a bit of a tough camp towards the end – I had an injury and I haven’t sparred in 3-4 weeks,” Billam-Smith told Matchroom afterwards. “All that emotion came out, it was an interesting build up the fight, future fights, but I’m over the moon.
 
“It was a good shot, the best shot he landed all fight, I was with it, but it was a good shot, it buzzed me in a way, but I was in control, I could see, I knew I’d been hit but I just had to ride it a bit.
 
“I was really confident, the corner had it closer. In my head I thought I’d won probably eight rounds, but I wasn’t scoring it as I went along – so maybe seven. There was no way he won seven rounds, absolutely no way, that first round he landed one shot. It was a good shot, but I also had him hurt and hit him a lot more – those rounds should really go in my favour.
 
“He was harder to hit clean to be fair to him, but that was my own fault, I was loading up looking for one shot. Shane said that so the jab to the body was key, it was everything. It won me the fight, we watched the Askin fight today and that was the key – props to Shane.
 
“I sent the tweet out and it got him going, he built the fight really well. I played the villain at the beginning and just let him run away with it. All respect to Tommy, he was tougher and better than I thought he was.
 
“I’m so much better than that, I just walked back into the changing rooms and Shane has a massive go at me and said, ‘what was that?’ We know what I’m capable of but then I get too excited in there when I hurt someone. That’s because I’ve only had 14 fights, I’ve got a lot of learning to do but it’s a long process, I’m not the finished article and that’s the sort of fight I need.
 
“I was fit in there, comfortable in there, still ready to work in that last round and go up a gear which is good, but I’ve got to learn to be more articulate with how I go about things.
 
“They all work hard in the gym; I like to do the little 1% that they probably can’t be bothered to do. They work hard, Lawrence runs every morning, everyone’s a grafter in the gym but that comes down to Shane and Josh, they set such a high standard. You’ve got to be world class and act like a professional the whole time in that gym to survive.
 
“There was a group of twelve lads from Bournemouth that I kind of know and they all come up, to see them in crowd and to making the noise they did, it was really special. It’s so good to have fans back and some normality.
 
“I want a show in Bournemouth, I really do. We’ve tried it almost 18 months ago, it would be unbelievable to have a show down there. We’ve got the Bournemouth International Centre which Eddie had booked for last March which he couldn’t get an opponent for. I need a show in Bournemouth, I love my fans, they’ve been superb to me. I’ve been on the road, Riakporhe in London, Glover in Liverpool, here in London, I want to go home.”

Campbell Hatton remained undefeated with a four-round decision over Jakub Laskowski in a lightweight fight.

Hatton, 135 1/2 lbs of Manchester, ENG won by a 40-36 score and is now 3-0. Laskowski, 135 1/2 lbs of Poland is 4-5-1.

“I was happy again really; I thought my defence was a lot better,” Hatton told Matchroom afterwards. “I was a bit more composed again, I think there were a few times where I’d hurt him and probably could have smothered my work fully and not caught him with anything. I managed to control myself a little when he was going. I didn’t quite get the knockout because I was smothering, and he was tricky, but it was exactly what I need. I need the rounds more than I need a stoppage.
 
“He was tricky customer, slippery, doing a bit of switching and some different looks. That’s the perfect fight and it has been matched perfectly for me to learn. There are people out there they could bring in and anyone could hit them and knock them over. That’s not how they’re matching me, we’re getting me people who are going to get the rounds out of me and give me different things to overcome – that’s what he did tonight.
 
“I think I showed some more classy work than I have before, working off my jab. My jab is one of my best shots in the gym and now I’m bringing it into play in the fights now.
 
“The first fight I was saying all week I was dead relaxed, but I had nothing to compare it to. The second fight I was more composed, and I was more composed this fight – next time it’s going to be the same pattern and even better.
 
“This was a different experience, it’s different to anything that I’m probably going to face very often in my career. It was different making the ring walk this time, you feel breezy seeing people tucking into their tea and having a pint. It was weird making my ring walk to that but as soon as the bell went it was just like any other ring and I just got to work.
 
“Gibraltar, the amount of media commitments I had to and how much time was invested into me on the media side, I think that set me up, so I’ve not had to do much really. We’ve got it all out the way in the first one, I’m never going to have to deal with anything like that again, the pressure will always be there but each time I’ll be dealing with it better. I’m dealing with the pressure like it’s not there now.
 
“You see all these opponents, if it was any other kid he was fighting with any other surname, I don’t think he would have been digging in half as much as he did there. They want to make a point, whether it’s to stop me, or just survive – they raise their game a bit when they know it’s me and I’ve got to do the same.”

Anthony Fowler stopped Rico Mueller in round eight of a scheduled 10-round junior middleweight fight,

In round two, Mueller began to bleed from his nose.

Mueller hung tough, but over the course of the fight, Fowler started breaking down Mueller. In round eight, Fowler landed a jab that buckled Mueller. Fowler continued to batter Mueller all over the ring until the bout was stopped at 2:12.

Fowler, 155 1/4 lbs of Liverpool, ENG is 15-1 with 12 knockouts. Mueller, 156 lbs of Eberswalde, GER is 28-4-1.

After the fight, it was announced that Fowler would take on Liam Smith on October 9th.

“My next opponent is a really good fighter, much better than him, but I needed the rounds,” Fowler told DAZN afterwards. “I thought in round two I wobbled him but thought, ‘not today’. My last fight was three rounds and I thought, ‘I need rounds today’, so I stepped back and worked on a few things.
 
“The one thing I haven’t had in my career is rounds, I’ve always blasted my opponents out and haven’t really learnt much. I’m learning plenty in the gym but that’s where it counts, it means nothing in the gym.
 
“I’m from the south of Liverpool, Liam’s (Smith) from the north. It doesn’t bother me, I respect Liam a lot, he’s a really good fighter, ten times better than that lad tonight so I need to be on top of my game. I don’t turn fights down, since day one I’ve boxed anyone, I’ve asked for all these big fights, but it never happened for me.
 
“Even tonight, I wanted to box Roberto Garcia, a good, experienced veteran. Rico Mueller gaveca good fight and I’m happy he replaced Garcia because I said in the ring, ‘thanks for giving it your all’, after six rounds he was six rounds down and he was still trying.
 
“Liam is a much higher level, but I needed the rounds and that’s what I got.”

Jack Cullen won a 10-round unanimous decision over former world title challenger Avni Yiildrim n a super middleweight bout.

Cullen, 163 1/2 lbs of Little Leaver, ENG won by scores of 100-90, 98-92 and 9793 and is now 20-2-1. Yildrim, 163 lbs of Istanbul, TUR ks 21-4.

“I’m absolutely buzzing and listen; we came with a game plan, a couple of rounds in I wasn’t doing what I should have been doing, but I stuck to my game plan and it paid off eventually,” Cullen told Matchroom afterwards. 
 
“I knew he was going to come forward, he’s a tough fighter and he comes to fight – that’s what he did tonight. Like I said with my game plan, using the jab and trying to not get caught with the right hand. I got caught a few times stupidly, but I got back on my boxing and got through the ten rounds.
 
“To be honest with you every fight I’ve seen him in he’s been one paced. It’s me not doing too much, using the jab, and letting him come forward, instead of me getting involved in a scrap – it worked. We stuck to the game plan, it worked, and I’m delighted. 
 
“I’ve been working over and over, every day, it’s starting to pay off. Like I said, you’re going to see a different Jack Cullen and I think you did tonight.
 
“At the end of the day, I’m in this game to fight the best and anything can happen, anything is around the corner. It’s all about being switched on and ready, whoever you get offered you’ve got to take the fight with both hands and go for it.
 
“I have got a brilliant support, a lot of fans that love watching and supporting me. There were only 25 in there tonight, but it sounded like 100, it’s brilliant and I’m going to have a nice little rest – we’ll see. Hopefully Eddie will sign me now!
 
“It’s moving in the right direction, the direction I want it to go. Everyone said Yildirim is going to be a tough opponent and I knew that, but I knew I should be beating fighters like him because of where I want to take my career to.
 
“I will go with flow, who knows, I reckon there will be all sorts of people jumping out the closet wanting to fight me, but we’ll see.”

Prized amateur Sandy Ryan made a successful pro debut with a six-round decision over Kirstie Bavington in a super lightweight bout.

Ryan, 144 1/2 lbs of Darby England won by a 60-54 tally and is 1-0. Bavington, 144 1/2 lbs of Pensnett, ENG is 3-2-2.

“It was a very good fight,” Ryan told Matchroom afterwards. “I’m over the moon and I’m so happy. I enjoyed every minute of that, the walk, everything, I’m just made for the pro game.
 
“I took my time; I enjoyed the ring walk – I enjoyed it so much.
 
“I wanted a tough fight, to prove the levels. I showed glimpses of it, there were times where she was a bit messy and holding. The pro game and each fight as it goes on, I’m going to get much better.
 
“Levels, I said that even if I had a bad day, she wasn’t going to beat me. It’s not disrespect to her, but I just know what I’m capable of. Boxing’s my life and I’m going all the way.
 
“I’ve got the right team behind, Matchroom, DAZN, Eddie Hearn, Paul Ready my manager and Clifton my trainer, that’s all I need – that’s my team. I don’t need a big entourage around me, this is all I need and we’re going all the way.”

Chris Billam-Smith has predicted that he will “take out” Tommy McCarthy “in the mid to late rounds” when the Cruiserweight rivals collide for the European, British and Commonwealth Titles on the first week of Matchroom Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex on Saturday July 31, live worldwide on DAZN.

‘The Gentleman’ used the power of social media to help secure a shot at the European and British Titles when he sent the following Tweet to McCarthy on May 12: “Stop trying to avoid me. I’d punch holes in you. Don’t bottle it”. Just more than a month later, the pair went face to face with their bout confirmed for July 31.

Billam-Smith was made to work as he dropped the Czech Republic’s Vasil Ducar twice during a hard-fought points victory that saw him claim the vacant WBA Continental Cruiserweight Title and progress to 12-1 (10 KOs) at The SSE Arena, Wembley in March. 

The former Poole ABC man, who blasted out Nathan Thorley in two rounds last year at Fight Camp, believes he will eventually wear down McCarthy to deliver another stoppage triumph as he continues to build towards a World Title shot under the guidance of trainer Shane McGuigan.

“We were calling out Tommy McCarthy after my fight at Fight Camp last year,” said Billam-Smith. “I was getting interviewed after that and we were talking about it. It’s been a year in the making. Obviously with Tommy boxing on Matchroom shows and myself wanting bigger Titles and him picking up the European – it was a fight that made sense. I believe it’s a really fan-friendly fight and a great one for my career. I’ve been asking for it for a while and we’ve finally got it. 

“I’ve seen Tommy and I’ve watched him for a few years now. He’s a very decent fighter. He’s got quick hands and a very good boxing IQ. It’s an exciting challenge for me. Winning the European Title will be a massive achievement for me and it’s one that I’m really looking forward to, but also, it’s a step that you plan to make on the journey. 

“You can’t take too much from his last fight. He did exactly what he had to do. He boxed well, he hurt him to the body, but unfortunately there wasn’t much coming back so there’s not much you can really take from that win. There will be a lot of other fights of his from the past that you can watch that are better wins for him because the opponents brought out more of him. 

“I sent that one Tweet out which got a lot of traction, a lot more than I expected to be honest. I’m just glad he took the fight and it’s got him right up for the fight which is great to see. That’s what fans want to see. They want to see two domestic fighters going at it, and in the press conferences as well.

“It looks like I’ve riled him up a bit so he’s going to be fired up for this fight. He’s going to be training very hard. I expect a very good performance from him. The fight will definitely catch fire. Every fighter wants to win with a knockout and I think this is a really good opportunity for me to put all of my skillset to work. I can box, I can break him down and I believe that I will take him out in the mid to late rounds.”

McCarthy vs. Billam-Smith is part of a huge night of action as Fight Camp returns with a bang, rising Welterweight star Conor Benn (18-0, 12 KOs) puts his WBA Continental Title on the line against Adrian Grandos (21-8-3, 15 KOs), WBA Featherweight World Champion Xu Can (18-2, 3 KOs) defends his Title against Nottingham’s Leigh Wood (24-2, 14 KOs), former World Title challenger Avni Yildirim (21-3, 12 KOs) aims to bounce back from his loss to pound-for-pound king Canelo Alvarez when he takes on ‘Little Lever’s Meat Cleaver’ Jack Cullen (19-2-1, 9 KOs), Liverpool Super-Welterweight Anthony Fowler (14-1, 11 KOs) promises to build on his huge third-round knockout win over Jorge Fortea when he takes on Roberto Garcia (44-5, 27 KOs), Manchester Lightweight Campbell Hatton (2-0) continues his young journey in the pro ranks against Jakub Laskowski (4-4-1, 2 KOs) and former amateur star Sandy Ryan makes her highly-anticipated professional debut at Super-Lightweight against Kirstie Bavington (3-1-2, 2 KOs).

Chris Billam-Smith will take on Deion Jumah for the vacant British Cruiserweight Title on the undercard of Alexander Povetkin’s huge rematch with Dillian Whyte on Saturday November 21, shown live on Sky Sports Box Office. 

Commonwealth Champion Billam-Smith (11-1, 10 KOs) retained his belt in emphatic style last time out at Matchroom Fight Camp in August, using his superior size and strength to blast out Cardiff’s Nathan Thorley in two dominant rounds. 

‘The Gentleman’, trained by Shane McGuigan in Kent, is seeking domestic dominance by avenging a loss he suffered to Jumah in the amateurs before turning his attention to a shot at European honours as he continues to impress with powerful performances. 

English Champion Jumah (13-0, 7 KOs) is undefeated in thirteen fights, winning the Southern Area Title with a fifth round stoppage of Ossie Jervier at York Hall in 2018 before taking out Wadi Camacho in five to secure the English crown in 2019.

‘The Ghost’, a 6′ 1″ southpaw from Chelsea, kicked off 2020 in style as he outpointed Sam Hyde over 12 compelling rounds to retain his English Title, and secure a shot at the famous Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt previously owned by Richard Riakporhe.

“I think it’s a great fight,” said Bilam-Smith. “Me and Dion have shared the ring together in the amateurs and we have sparred as professionals. I think our styles gel really nicely. We both come to fight and we are both always fit. We’re two big punchers so it’s a brilliant fight and one that I’m really excited about.

“He beat me in the amateurs so I’m looking forward to getting me revenge. The British Title is such a prestigious belt and it is a dream for any British fighter to fight for it. I’m absolutely buzzing to add that belt to my Commonwealth. I will become the British Champion on November 21.”

“We have waited too long for an opportunity like this but timing is everything and I’m glad this fight got made when it did,” said Jumah. “Chris Billam-Smith is the perfect opponent for this stage in my career. On November 21 I will be walking away with BOTH the British and Commonwealth Titles. The Ghost Is Coming!”

Billam-Smith vs. Jumah lands on a huge night of action that sees Alexander Povetkin (36-2-1, 25 KOs) rematch Dillian Whyte (27-2, 18 KOs) in a must-win contest for the Londoner and Conor Benn (16-0, 11 KOs) take a huge step up against Germany’s Sebastian Formella (22-1, 10 KOs).

Terri Harper and Natasha Jonas battled to a 10-round split draw in a terrific action fight for Harper’s WBC Super Featherweight title fight at Matchroom HQ in Essex, England.

In round two Jonas was cut over her right eye. The two battled at close quarters with each taking turns seizing the upperhand. Harper came forward, but Jonas landed the more telling blows including rocking Harper on at least two different occasions. The two battled down the stretch and gave it their all in the ring. In the end, both Harper and Jonas won a card via 96-94 scores, and a 3rd card was 95-95.

Harper, 129.3 lbs of Denaby is now 10-0-1. Jonas, 129.6 lbs of Liverpool is 9-1-1.

Fowler stops Adam Harper in 7

Anthony Fowler stopped previously Adam Harper in round seven of a scheduled 10-round junior middleweight bout.

In round two, Harper was deducted a point for low blows. He was also cut under his left eye in the round. In round four, Fowler dropped Harper with a booming right to the chin.

In round six, Fowler was cut above his right eye. That did not deter Fowler as he came out in the following round and landed a hard 1-2 combination that froze Harper. A follow up flurry forced referee Ian-John Lewis to stop the bout at 1:34.

Fowler, 155.7 lbs of Liverpool is 13-1 with 10 knockouts. Harper, 156.4 lbs of Tewkesbury is 9-1-1.

IN EARLY ACTION

Hopey Price won a decision over Jonny Phillips in a six-round featherweight fight.

Price, 126.9 lbs of Leeds won by a 60-54 tally and is now 3-0. Phillips, 128.8 lbs of Sandhurst is 5-5.

Chris Billam-Smith stopped previously undefeated Nathan Thorley in round two of a scheduled 12-round cruiserweight bout.

In round one, Billiam-Smith sent Thorley to the canvas, after absorbing three lefts to the head. In round two, a barrage of punches that was concluded by two huge rights put Thorley on the deck for a 2nd time. Minutes later, Billam-Smith landed a booming right that sent Thorley to deck again. Thorley got to his feet, but the fight was stopped at 2:05.

Billam-Smith, 199.9 lbs of Bournsmouth is 11-1 with 10 knockouts. Thorley, 199.9 lbs of Cardiff, WAL is 14-1.