NEWS: CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH HOPING TO FACE JAI OPETAIA AT DEAN COURT

By: Jay Calderon

‍On Saturday, at the Bournemouth International Centre, Cruiserweight contender Chris Billam-Smith knocked out Armend Xhoxhaj, taking one step closer to a world title shot.

The title in question would be held by world champion Jai Opetaia. Opetaia became the 200 pound kingpin with a dramatic decision win over long-reigning champion Mairis Briedis back in July of this year.

Now, with some big time domestic wins under his belt and a mass of Bournemouth fans behind him, 'CBS' is looking to take that next step. While he knows Opetaia will present his challenges, Billiam-Smith isn't shying away.

"It's a difficult fight, but he's the man that beat the man in the division. He went and beat Briedis at home. Yeah, it's a hard fight, but it's a world title. You're not going to get an easy touch for a world title. ... When they're a world champion, you've got to go and rip the belt from them," Billam-Smith told iD Boxing.

"I got into this sport for achievements and challenges," Chris continued. "I didn't get into it for money and picking up a belt against someone no one has ever heard of. So, bring him on."

And Billam-Smith isn't just looking for any old venue to host what would be the biggest fight of his career. Billam-Smith is hoping the fight lands at Dean Court, the stadium for the local football club, which holds a capacity of over 11,000.

Truthfully, it seems the right move for the once-beaten Billam-Smith. While some might argue he isn't quite world level, what else would you have him do? He's 32 years of age and in the best form of his life. If he can bring the fight onto home soil and face a relatively new champion, he might just catch lightning in a bottle.

If he loses, it was at least against perhaps the best fighter in the division, which allows Billam-Smith to save face. Plus, he would still have decent domestic fights at his disposal with the likes of Richard Riakporhe, the only man to have defeated Billam-Smith as a professional.

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