Chris Billam-Smith vs Armend Xhoxhaj: Undercard Preview
After fighting in Bournemouth for years under his previous promoters, Chris Billam-Smith will make headlines in his hometown for the second time in six months.
‘The Gentleman’ is looking to win the world title in 2023 and battle Kosovo’s Armend Xhoxhaj, as he looks set to stay active and keep his name on the roster.
A card in Bournemouth gives local talent a chance to shine on the big stage, with the likes of Lee Cutler (11-1) and Mace Ruegg (7-0), Gemma’s son, who surpassed via Shannon Courtenay last week, both had the chance to play on Sky Sports.
Meanwhile, Hull’s Harvey Lambert, who beat British title challenger Conah Walker in amateur weight, made his professional debut in the super middleweight with the aim of establishing himself in the domestic arena.
Popular social media star Viddal Riley is expected to fight for the fourth time this year, against Amine Boucetta of Belgium (7-5), as he wants to prove that he has the skills to match the title. his superstar brand. Unfortunately, Riley withdrew at the last minute due to a virus infection.
Michael McKinson (21-1) returned to action after an unsuccessful trip across the pond, where he suffered his first defeat to Vergil Ortiz Jr. with Sebastian Formella, as he tries to get back on the winning track.
Caroline Dubois (4-0, 3KO’s) continues to build a strong knockout record as her brother, Daniel, and takes on Sofia Rodriguez (5-7), where a pause would show strength. actually exist in the family. This will be the first opponent she has stopped, who has never been knocked out before.
Cori Gibbs (17-0) takes on a tough task against the UK’s oldest champ Jimmy First (13-0), who held the Central Area lightweight title at 41. This will be ‘Jimmy The Fist’ highest record to date, having only turned pro 5 years ago and the Yorkshireman will prove that age is nothing but a number, against the much-loved Gibbs tomb.
Scotland’s historic heavyweight champion Nick Campbell (5-0) also appeared on the card in what could prove to be his toughest test to date. He’s up against Newcastle’s Steve Robinson (5-1), who suffered a shock defeat earlier this year, but had three knockouts in the first round. This fight is sure to be explosive with both men starting their careers late and with no time to spare if they want to challenge for domestic titles.
However, tonight’s match is, in theory, Dan Azeez (17-0) against former world title challenger Rocky Fielding (30-2). Azeez placed his British title ahead of Fielding, who beat the likes of John Ryder in the super-middle class and has now stepped up to the more relaxed but crowded light-heavyweight division.
The tennis player is looking to revive his career and will be hoping that his experience against champions like Canelo Alvarez and Callum Smith will give him the edge for a domestic title challenge. However, he got off to a bad start, lost 1 pound and didn’t come back for a second try. That means Azeez retains his British title and is the only person eligible to win the vacant Commonwealth belt.
Finally, the show’s star Chris Billam-Smith (16-1) could see a world title fight coming up and will be looking to make a statement against Armend Xhoxhaj (14-2). The local hero will be looking for a stop, having covered the distance in four of his last five fights and have a chance at a point, against an opponent who has been blocked in both defeats in his career.
However, Xhoxhaj will be looking to ruin the party after the best win of his career over Roman Fress in his final game. The 28-year-old holds the WBO Intercontinental Belt and is ranked 9th in the world by the same organization. Billam-Smith will certainly keep an eye on Jai Opetaia’s world title, but it would be wise not to take a look at his dance partner this weekend, who could prove to be a ‘daddy’ opponent. banana’ really.
The game will be streamed live on Sky Sports this Saturday from 7pm, Billam-Smith is expected to play at around 10pm.