Billam-Smith promises 'explosive performance' as Riakporhe fight details confirmed

Bournemouth boxing star Chris Billam-Smith vowed he would give fans an “explosive performance” after his WBO cruiserweight title defence against Richard Riakporhe was confirmed.

The pair will go toe-to-toe at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park on Saturday, June 15, live on Sky Sports Box Office.

Billam-Smith’s only professional loss came against unbeaten Riakporhe at the O2 Arena in London back in July 2019.

But with his fans set to make the trip to the capital this summer, the former Poole ABC fighter is relishing the chance to avenge that defeat.

Billam-Smith said: “I’m looking forward to giving the Bournemouth fans an away day to remember with an explosive performance.

"Richard is a good fighter, but I've improved hugely since we last met and he's going to be in for a terrible night.”

Challenger Riakporhe, who is nicknamed the Midnight Train, said: "I'm really happy, finally my dream has come true, not just to fight for a world title but to fight at Selhurst Park.

"It's unbelievable, I'm looking forward to putting on a show for the fans and keeping the title in south London. The only thing that's going to be derailed is Chris Billam-Smith.”

(Picture: Lawrence Lustig/BOXXER)