Undefeated Welshman Nathan Thorley is relishing his shot at Commonwealth cruiserweight champion Chris Billiam-Smith on Week 2 of Matchroom’s Fight Camp in Brentwood, Essex, on August 7.
Thorley (14-0, 6 KOs) feels he is more than ready for a step up in pro class, having already won a bronze medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. The Cardiff man has recorded two points wins over Lithuanian imports Remigijus Ziausys and Dmitrij Kalinovskij since moving up from light-heavyweight where he previously won the Welsh title against Jermaine Asare. Now he’s primed for a stiffer examination of his potential at cruiserweight.
“I’ve had one fight where my opponent was coming to win, and he got knocked out in the second round,” said Thorley. “I’m taking nothing away from Jermaine Asare, he’s a tidy fighter. After that I went back to fighting journeymen again, opponents who are only trying to survive in there. That’s not what I want out of this sport. I want to fight the best to be the best.
“The division is massive at the moment, it never used to be, but now there’s plenty of fights out there for me that I want to take and will take. Chris is a good fighter. He’s got a good shot selection to the body and head. He’s a fit, strong, physical guy so I’ve got my work cut out. It’s not going to be an easy night. I’m really looking forward to getting in the ring with him.
“I was never going to pass at this opportunity. This is my breakthrough night. Everyone that I’ve fought or sparred with have always said I’m big and awkward. He’ll have his work cut out, too. I’m not coming in to just fall down. I’m coming in to win. I will have my hand raised.”
Main image: Mark Robinson/Matchroom.