Chris Billam-Smith is set for a challenging first defense of his WBO cruiserweight title against the seasoned Mateusz Masternak at the Bournemouth International Centre this Sunday. Seven months ago, Billam-Smith achieved his dream by winning the title in his favorite football team’s stadium, and now he's back to prove his mettle in a much-anticipated bout.
Billam-Smith, known as “The Gentleman,” is no stranger to tough fights. Since his only career loss to Richard Riakporhe in 2019, he has notched up nine successive wins, collecting multiple titles along the way. His choice of Masternak as his opponent for this voluntary defense reflects his willingness to take on significant challenges, rather than opting for an easier matchup.
Masternak, a stalwart of the cruiserweight division, will be fighting for a world belt for the first time. The 36-year-old Pole, with only one loss since his narrow defeat to Tony Bellew in 2015, is expected to bring his vast experience and determination to the ring. Billam-Smith is aware of the threat posed by Masternak, acknowledging the need to prepare for a tough fight against such an experienced and talented opponent.
Billam-Smith’s confidence is bolstered by his recent success, and he feels ready to tackle whatever Masternak brings to the fight. Show promoter Ben Shalom suggested that Masternak would have been the favorite had this fight been arranged before Billam-Smith's victory over Okolie. However, Billam-Smith’s growth as a fighter, particularly in self-confidence, has been evident since winning the title. He believes that the best version of himself will be enough to overcome Masternak, a fighter with an impressive record of never being dropped in 52 fights.
This upcoming fight is not just a title defense for Billam-Smith; it’s a test of his evolution as a fighter and his ability to maintain his position at the top of the cruiserweight division. With his confidence at an all-time high and a challenging opponent in Masternak, Billam-Smith is poised for what could be a defining moment in his boxing career.
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