Friday night, Chris Billam-Smith defends his WBO Cruiserweight Championship against fellow Brit Richard Riakporhe at Selhurst Park. Who will come out on top? Here is how to make sure you don’t miss a round…
Where to watch Billam-Smith vs Riakporhe
When: Saturday 15th June, Ring walk approx 22:00
Where: Selhurst Park
How:
UK – Sky Sports Action/NOW TV
Match preview, predictions
Chris Billam-Smith attempts to make the second successful defense of his Cruiserweight Championship against British rival Richard Riakporhe. The pair fought five years ago with Riakporhe winning a narrow split decision. Since then both fighters have been on their separate paths while gaining experience and improving their all-around boxing skills.
Despite losing their first bout ‘The Gentleman’ has not lost since. He is the one who has gone on to achieve his dream of becoming a world champion when he defeated Lawrence Okolie in May last year. He was the underdog going into the fight but managed to prize away the belt by frustrating Okolie all night in what was a very scrappy affair. Since being crowned champion Billam-Smith has defended his title once against crafty veteran Mateusz Masternak.
The challenger still holds an unblemished record but has not fought the same level of opposition as his opponent. ‘The midnight train’ believes that this is his time and that he has got the champion’s number having defeated him previously. This will be his first stadium fight so it will be interesting to see if he can cope with the pressure and expectation of performing in front of such a large crowd. Riakporhe, who is the bigger puncher heading into the fight will be considered the favorite and we think he will get the job done within the distance this weekend.
