Bournemouth
Chris Billam-Smith is set to make a triumphant return to Bournemouth, where he will fight at the Bournemouth International Centre on June 6. This marks his first bout in the city since December 2023, when he successfully defended his WBO world cruiserweight title against Mateusz Masternak. The upcoming fight promises to be a thrilling event for Billam-Smith, who is eager to perform once again in front of his home fans.
Chris Billam-Smith said: “So, it’s really exciting. He’s a great opponent. He’s got his 21 wins, only one defeat, and that was up at bridgerweight, but against a heavyweight, one of Dillian Whyte’s former opponents, a guy called Oscar Rivas. Twenty-one wins, one defeat, one draw, 20, knockouts in his 21 wins, so a huge puncher. It’s a good test for me. Obviously the most exciting thing about it is boxing back in Bournemouth. I think it’s been two and a half years now, December ’23 was the last time I boxed back home. Can obviously punch extremely hard as well, so I’ve got to be switched on. So I’m excited for the test, and I’m feeling good at camp, and it’s a challenge I relish, especially like I said, in front of my home fans.”
Chris Billam-Smith continued: “Part of the reason Billam-Smith signed with Zuffa was due to the presence of Jai Opetaia in their now-impressive cruiserweight lineup. He’s still seen as the number one in the division. And that was a big reason for me signing with them, was to get that fight eventually. So whether that’s the one after this one or the one after that, I think it will be within the next two fights after this one. Fighting back home is just such a privilege for me. I’m so grateful for it and it’s such a great opportunity, every time I get to box in front of my home fans, I always got into the sport because of atmosphere, and the atmosphere that they produce for me is just absolutely electric. And I’m so grateful for it, and it’s never ever lost on me. And the opportunity to do that in front of them again, it’s the thing I’m most excited about.”
Billam-Smith’s opponent boasts an impressive record, with 21 wins, including 20 knockouts, and only one defeat. This fight presents a significant challenge for Billam-Smith, who acknowledges the punching power of his adversary. Despite the formidable test ahead, the excitement of competing in front of a home crowd adds an extra layer of motivation for the boxer.
The decision to sign with Zuffa was strategic for Billam-Smith, largely influenced by the opportunity to eventually face Jai Opetaia, considered the top contender in the cruiserweight division. Billam-Smith anticipates that this highly anticipated matchup will occur within the next two fights, further fueling his drive to succeed in the upcoming bout.
Fighting in Bournemouth holds a special place in Billam-Smith’s heart, as he cherishes the electric atmosphere created by his hometown supporters. The opportunity to perform once more in front of them is something he deeply values, and he is eager to deliver an unforgettable performance on June 6.
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