Chris Billam-Smith (15-1, 11 KOs) will get the chance to headline a televised show in his home city of Bournemouth for the first time in his career.
On August 30 ‘The Gentleman’ faces Isaac Chamberlain (14-1, 8 KOs) at the Bournemouth International Centre. However, there is no confirmation yet whether or not the fight will be a third defence of Billam-Smith’s European Cruiserweight title.
The all-British encounter will headline a show which will be televised on Sky Sports.
The 31-year-old champion is in a great position to land his first world title shot soon but the challenge of Chamberlain is not one to be overlooked.
In the current world rankings Billam-Smith is ranked two and three with the WBO and IBF, respectively. Interestingly Richard Riakporhe, promoted by BOXXER and who also fights on Sky Sports, is one spot above him in the IBF ratings. The two have already fought with Riakporhe winning a split decision three years ago.
In stark contrast the career of Chamberlain, who had been fighting on Channel 5 with Hennessy Sports, has been one blighted by injury and inactivity.
The 28-year-old has fought 15 times in seven and a half years, but his talent has always been highly regarded and has often been tipped for the top. Chamberlain got the opportunity to prove himself four years ago against arch-rival Lawrence Okolie but lost a decision in a fight that was frankly one to forget.
A win for Chamberlain would not only get him the European title but would see him shoot up the world rankings and get himself right into the mix of the world scene.
Billam-Smith said:
“I’m coming home! I’m so delighted to be fighting back at home in front of my friends, family and supporters. Atmosphere is why I got into boxing and on 30th July the atmosphere is going to be electrifying.”
“As I always said, it doesn’t matter who is in the other corner, I just want to fight back at home. In front of my home crowd, I always perform.”
While Chamberlain added:
“This is a massive opportunity.”
“I want to give a huge shout to my manager Mick Hennessey for sticking with me all these years, along with my trainers. Now we’re on Sky, we’re back in the big time and I’m ready to show everyone this is a different Isaac to the one they’ve seen before.”