Following the announcement that Chris Billam-Smith will defend his world title against Richard Riakporhe, a new title fight has been added to the card.
Billam-Smith vs. Richard Riakporhe is a battle for the WBO world cruiserweight championship that is set to take place at Selhurst Park, the home of Premier League side Crystal Palace, on June 15 and be shown live on Sky Sports.
The first undercard fight has now been named by BOXXER and it see Brixton-born Isaac Chamberlain up against Michal Cieslak for the European cruiserweight championship.
Chamberlain’s path to becoming the mandatory challenger for Cieslak’s European crown came after securing a dominant points victory over his London rival Mikael Lawal for the British and Commonwealth Titles at York Hall in October.
Chamberlain’s record stands at 16 wins and now his determination to rebuild after defeat to Billam-Smith in 2022 has earned him a shot at the European title.
Both fighters were asked about the contest by BOXXER. Isaac Chamberlain said he is more than ready for this matchup.
“We relinquished the British title to step up to world level. I’m grateful that this is a chance to be European Champion. This will show that I’m world class and destined to be champion of the world.
“A win over Cieslak puts me top five in all the governing bodies and on the cusp of a world title fight. To get this opportunity on such a big stadium event makes it even sweeter.
“I’m sure South London is going to turn out and Selhurst Park will be rocking on June 15th when I’m crowned the new European Champion.”
Michal Cieslak added that he sees this fight as a step towards wining a world title again.
“My goal is to fight for the world championship again, but I am aware that defending my European title, especially against a dangerous and high rated fighter like Isaac Chamberlain brings me closer to that goal. This is another step for me to reach my dreams. If I want to be world champion, I have to win against rivals like Chamberlain.”
“My debut on British soil ended in defeat, so now I will have extra motivation to get even. I’m maturing and making progress with every performance. My last fight ended quicker than I thought it would, so I’m hoping that in the showdown with Chamberlain, I’ll have the opportunity to have fun in the ring a little longer.”
Although more fights will be added to this card, it is already shaping up to be a big one.
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