Chris Billam-Smith Retains The Title Against Richard Riakporhe
In a cruiserweight rematch, WBO champion “The Gentleman” Chris Billam-Smith (20-1, 13KO) got revenge by defeating “The Midnight Train” Richard Riakporhe (17-1, 13KO).
Although the early rounds were uneventful, The Midnight Train did a good job of fighting behind the jab and landed the more noticeable shots. Yet, Billam-Smith was busier, landed good body shots, and was the more aggressive fighter.
As the fight continued, The Gentleman began fighting off the front foot and mixed up the attack. Riakporhe tried to regain control behind the jab but wasn’t busy enough, although he did land a body shot that halted the champion’s momentum.
As Riakporhe’s offense went null, the WBO champion kicked it into another gear. He attacked the body on the inside and found a home for that uppercut. The Midnight Train came alive in round nine and hurt the champion several times before the bell sounded.
Billam-Smith used that experience to close the fight strong with combination shots and skillful inside fighting. When the final bell sounded, two judges scored it 115-112, and one had it 116-111 as The Gentleman retained the title.
In the post-fight interview, Billam-Smith called for a fight with WBA champion Gilberto Ramirez.
Be the first to comment