British cruiserweights Chris Billam-Smith and Isaac Chamberlain meet in Bournemouth on Saturday July 30. The two will fight for Billam-Smith's Commonwealth and EBU titles at the Bournemouth International Centre in the champion's hometown. A win could see the victor move onto a world title fight against cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia, who defeated former champion Mairis Briedis. Billam-Smith most recently beat Tommy McCarthy, while Chamberlain fought in December for a win over Dilan Prasovic.
Here is everything you need to know about Chris Billam-Smith vs. Isaac Chamberlain.
Date and start time
Date: Saturday, July 30
Main card: 7 p.m. BST / 2 p.m. ET
Main event ring walks (approx): 10 p.m. BST / 5 p.m. ET
The main card is set to get underway at 7 p.m. BST / 2 p.m. ET, with the main event ring walks scheduled for 10 p.m. BST / 5 p.m. ET. These timings could change due to the length of the undercard fights.
What has been said?
Chris Billam-Smith : “Boxing gave me a lifeline. When I was young I had low self-esteem – I didn’t really believe in myself. Boxing gives a voice to those who don’t have one or don’t want to speak up. It makes you feel confident speaking through your fight. It gives you the confidence to speak up and be a lot more yourself. Before boxing I was more in my shell. I’m very grateful.”
Issac Chamberlain : “It’s going to be a great spectacle. I can’t wait to show everyone that Isaac is one of the most improved fighters in recent memory. This fight could definitely change my life, They say the winner of this fight is fighting for the IBF world title against Jai Opetaia and Ring Magazine belts, which means you are world No. 1. This is a huge, huge opportunity for me. It’s definitely something that can change my life and the life of my family.”
Predictions
Although the Londoner Chamberlain has recently amassed a number of consecutive stoppage victory, analysts don’t believe it will be the case on Saturday night against the hometown favorite. Billam-Smith has a great chin and can rely on that to avoid being stopped. Further, Bournemouth player will have the crowd on his side and will be totally focused and determined to win in front of his own supporters so a Billam-Smith win seems the most probable outcome.
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