Boxing Rematch: Billam-Smith and Riakporhe Collide Again for WTO Cruiserweight Title

Almost five years after their first encounter, Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe will renew their rivalry tonight at Selhurst Park stadium. The two cruiserweights, now boasting impressive records of 19-1 and 17-0 respectively, will clash for Billam-Smith’s WTO world title.

Billam-Smith’s Trainer Optimistic About Improvements

Billam-Smith’s trainer, Shane McGuigan, admitted the possibility of a rematch has always been on their radar. “It’s been nearly five years now. Of course, it was always going to be on our radar,” McGuigan said. He believes his fighter has made the necessary improvements since their first bout, which Riakporhe won over 10 rounds, while Riakporhe has been more reluctant to take on top challenges.

“Chris has been doing everything right, he’s been taking the challenges that Riakporhe hasn’t been doing,” McGuigan explained. “Richard had the opportunity to box Lawrence Okolie and Jai Opetaia, and chose against both of them. Now he feels confident because he’s boxing a guy that’s a world champion who in his head he’s beaten before.”

Riakporhe Confident in His Chances

Riakporhe, on the other hand, maintains he has never turned down a fight and sees this as his first chance to win a world title at 34 years old. McGuigan believes the Bournemouth champion’s victory over Okolie was a tougher challenge than Riakporhe, stating, “I believe Lawrence Okolie beats Richard Riakporhe.”

Improved Skillsets on Both Sides

Both fighters have showcased significant improvements since their first meeting, with Billam-Smith learning to pace himself and Riakporhe becoming “a lot cuter with his attacks.” The focus, however, remains firmly on the immediate task at hand, as McGuigan emphasizes the importance of taking each day in the gym seriously, rather than looking too far ahead.

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