BOURNEMOUTH cruiserweight sensation Chris Billam-Smith claimed his first title as a professional and admitted: “It means so much.”
The 29-year-old recorded a brutal fifth-round stoppage victory over Craig Glover in Liverpool to seal the Commonwealth title, in his 11th bout in the pro ranks.
Victory also meant ‘The Gentleman’ bounced back from his split decision loss against Richard Riakporhe last time out – a man he could come up against should he look to unify the Commonwealth and British titles.
“It means so much,” the Dorset fighter told Sky Sports, after putting down hometown fighter Glover.
“It was a must-win fight.
“Craig’s a very good fighter, I was scared going into that fight because I knew how good he was and how tough he was.
“It’s nerve-wracking. If tonight didn’t go the way it did – if it went the other way it was a long road back.
“The nerves were there before the fight but that’s what kept me sharp and switched on early on.
“Craig Glover is a better fighter than his record suggests and I hope he carries on because he’s got success. He will win belts like this and he is a lovely bloke as well.”
Both men landed some stiff shots from the outset, with Liverpudlian Glover receiving treatment for a cut to his left eye after the opening round.
Blood was then seen coming from the nose of the Merseysider during the second round.
And at the end of the fourth, Shane McGuigan-trained Billam-Smith put down Glover with two brutal left hooks before the bell.
Glover was on his knees again midway through the fifth and, after another flurry of shots from Billam-Smith, the referee stepped in to stop the contest.
The Bournemouth star paid tribute to the McGuigan family following the victory.
His manager, legendary featherweight Barry, lost his daughter Danika 'Nika' McGuigan in July – sister to Shane.
“I’ve got to thank Shane and Barry McGuigan and Josh Pritchard – especially with what they have been through recently,” said Billam-Smith.
“They were there for my last fight and Nika wasn’t well in hospital.
“I have so much love for this family, they are part of my family as well and they are unbelievable people. I cannot thank them enough.”
Also speaking ringside after the bout, Shane McGuigan said: “I am massively proud.
“There was a lot of courage to come back straight into a hard fight after a close one but Chris has picked up his first belt.
“We want that Riakporhe rematch. I believe Chris learned a lot from that fight.
“I believed if they boxed again, Chris gets the win.”
Riakporhe is set to compete for the British crown against unbeaten Jack Massey at York Hall next month – the winner could go on to face Billam-Smith with both belts on the line.
Billam-Smith said: “I’ll be there on December 19.
“It’s already booked in my diary. I’m not sure if they have to fight a mandatory after that but I’d love that fight next.”
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