Richard Riakporhe and Chris Billam-Smith Turn Up the Heat!
WBO cruiserweight champion “The Gentleman” Chris Billam-Smith (19-1, 13KO) will face the only man to defeat him in top contender Richard “The Midnight Train” Riakporhe (17-0, 13KO). Things got heated between the two fighters during the announcement to the fans.
While fans waited for Joshua Buatsi and Dan Azeez to enter the ring, the Billam-Smith versus Riakporhe showdown was finally announced. The Midnight Train got the controversial nod in their first encounter in 2019, to which The Gentleman has wanted revenge ever since.
THE REMATCH IS FINALLY SET
With both men standing side by side, they had a very tense exchange of words, making fans want to see the rematch even more. The champion kicked things off by stating that Riakporhe hasn’t improved to his level.
“I know where I’m at now. The first fight was razor close . . . Richards improved, but he has not improved anywhere near what I am.”
Chris Billam-Smith
Before that statement could settle in, Riakporhe quickly fired back.
“You’re deluded. You’re going to see anyway . . . your time is done. The truth is your time is done, and I’m taking everything from you . . . I’m taking everything, and there’s nothing you can do about it.”
Richard Riakporhe
WHO IS THE BETTER MAN?
After witnessing that encounter, both men can’t wait to get in the ring. Honestly, they both have come along since that fateful day in 2019. Riakporhe showed tremendous growth in a step-up fight with a stoppage over former champion Krzysztof Glowacki in 2023.
Billam-Smith has fought better opposition and should believe he’s more polished between the two. He has won a world title and showed serious heart in a comeback title defense victory over Mateusz Masternak.
Although no date was provided, their heated back and forth is only a sign of things to come.
