Last month, Boxxer promoter Ben Shalom announced that both Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe had signed for an all-British world title contest, but that may not be the case just yet after the WBO ordered the commencement of negotiations for the bout.
With Riakporhe ranked at number one by the WBO, the clash was always touted to take place in 2024, as Riakporhe seeks a first world title and champion Billam-Smith aims to avenge his split-decision defeat to the Londoner, which is the lone blemish on his record.
To the joy of fans in the UK, Shalom stated that both men had signed for the fight last month in an interview with Sky Sports, and said it was targeted to take place at the home of either of the respective men’s beloved football teams, Bournemouth and Crystal Palace.
“It’s a mandatory fight and it’s guaranteed to happen next. Another huge fight in British boxing,
“We’re looking at dates at both Selhurst Park and the Vitality Stadium.
“They’ve both signed to fight each other. Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe will fight each other next and we’re waiting on Chris to update [on his cut] and then we can announce the date.”
Yet, regardless of those comments, it appears as though a deal is yet to be reached, with the WBO ordering negotiations for the rematch to begin.
“The WBO World Championship Committee is hereby ordering the commencement of negotiations for the subject matter bout. Accordingly, the camps have 10 days upon issuance of this notice letter to negotiate and reach an agreement.
“Failure to reach an accord within the period outlined herein, will result in the Committee ordering purse bid proceeding pursuant to WBO Regulations of World Championship Contests.”
Whether the initial announcement was smoke and mirrors or not, Billam-Smith-Riakporhe II is expected to go ahead within the first half of the year on British shores.