By Prepare for an epic clash at Selhurst Park as Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe gear up for an all-British showdown for the WBO world cruiserweight championship on June 15. In a thrilling showdown set to unfold at the home of Crystal Palace FC, boxing fans will witness defending champion Billam-Smith (19-1, 13 KOs) aiming to avenge his sole career loss against Riakporhe (17-0, 13 KOs), a big-punching south Londoner and avid Palace supporter.
Nicknamed ‘The Gentleman’, Billam-Smith secured the WBO crown in May 2023 with a sensational victory over Lawrence Okolie, sending shockwaves through the boxing world. Now, he looks forward to showcasing his skills once again in front of his hometown fans at the Vitality Stadium in Bournemouth. Despite Riakporhe holding a win over him in their previous encounter at the O2 Arena in July 2019, Billam-Smith remains confident in his ability to emerge victorious and bring the WBO belt back home.
However, Riakporhe, also known as ‘The Midnight Train’, is determined to cement his status as a force to be reckoned with in the cruiserweight division. The south London native is fueled by his previous triumph over Billam-Smith and is eager to replicate his success on the grand stage at Selhurst Park. With an unblemished professional record and a ferocious fighting style, Riakporhe is poised to seize his long-awaited shot at world honours and secure a memorable victory in front of his fellow ‘Eagles’.
Fans attending the historic ‘GAME ON!’ show at Selhurst Park will be treated to an unforgettable night of boxing action, as Billam-Smith and Riakporhe headline a stacked card featuring top-tier talent from the world of boxing. Boxxer founder and CEO Ben Shalom expressed his excitement about the event, highlighting the significance of hosting a world championship bout at Selhurst Park during its centenary celebrations.
A percentage of ticket sales will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace FC, further enhancing the event’s impact on the local community. Crystal Palace chairman Steve Parish echoed the sentiment, expressing delight at the return of professional boxing to Selhurst Park and emphasizing the event’s importance in commemorating the stadium’s centenary year.
With both fighters poised to leave it all in the ring, the stage is set for a historic showdown at Selhurst Park as Billam-Smith and Riakporhe vie for supremacy in the cruiserweight division. Don’t miss out on the action as these two warriors go head-to-head in pursuit of championship glory.
