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BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – MAY 27: Chris Billam-Smith celebrates victory following their WBO World Cruiserweight championship fight against Lawrence Okolie at Vitality Stadium on May 27, 2023 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images)
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BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – MAY 27: Chris Billam-Smith celebrates victory following their WBO World Cruiserweight championship fight against Lawrence Okolie at Vitality Stadium on May 27, 2023 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Luke Walker/Getty Images)
Boxer Chris Billam-Smith, holder of the cruiserweight title, is eagerly anticipating his next match. He has recently shed light on the expected timeline for this upcoming bout. Originally slated for the end of November, this schedule aligned with his initial preference and longstanding plan.
However, the issue at the moment is neither of his likely opponents have agreed nor denied the plans. Billam-Smith’s rival, Lawrence Okolie, is yet to confirm a rematch citing broadcast issues. Billam-Smith claims that nobody wants to work with Okolie after he left some unsavory comments about the boxing promoter, Eddie Hearn, but fans also have stated that the May bout in which Billam-Smith emerged victorious was the worst fight of his career. Chris recently went on the record to divulge his apprehension about the lack of an opponent.
Chris Billam-Smith Trains for the Unknown
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Billam’s anticipation hinges on whether his opponent will be Lawrence Okolie or Mateusz Masternak. He anticipates that one of these two fighters will step into the ring with him. However, there is a notable caveat in play here. Billam suggests that the uncertainty surrounding this matchup is due to issues concerning broadcasters who appear hesitant to feature Lawrence Okolie as the headliner. The reasons for this reluctance are not explicitly stated but are alluded to as “obvious reasons.”
“I think the only reason it won’t be Lawrence is issues with broadcasters not wanting to headline with him for obvious reasons,” Billam-Smith remarked.
In preparation for this impending showdown, Chris Billam-Smith is diligently training. His readiness to compete at the end of November is unquestionable, reflecting his commitment to his training regimen.
While the identity of his opponent remains uncertain, Chris is mindful of the potential differences in fighting styles that could come into play. He acknowledges that knowing the specific style of his opponent would be ideal. Whether it’s Mateusz Masternak or Lawrence Okolie, their respective fighting styles diverge significantly. The British boxer, however, conveyed a strong sense of confidence in his ability to adapt to either style. He highlighted his prior experience, having sparred numerous rounds with both types of fighters.
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This familiarity with varying styles bolsters his self-assuredness, assuring fans that he is well-prepared for whatever challenge awaits him.
The thirty-three-year-old Brit is busy preparing for his upcoming match in late November. Concerns from broadcasters primarily attribute the uncertainty of his opponent, whether Lawrence Okolie or Mateusz Masternak. Nonetheless, Billam-Smith remains undeterred, displaying his unwavering confidence in his ability to perform well regardless of the specific style of his adversary. As Lawrence Okolie’s feud with his boxing promoter Eddie Hearn continues, he currently remains a PR pariah. However, once the feud simmers, we may get to see a possible bout in November.
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Boxing enthusiasts eagerly await the final confirmation of the bout and anticipate an exciting showdown in the near future. Who do you think Chris is going to fight next? Let us know in the comments below.
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