Bournemouth’s former England amateur international Chris Billam-Smith has signed professional terms with legendary boxing figure Barry McGuigan and will make his professional debut this Saturday at Bournemouth’s O2 Academy under the guidance of 2016 Boxing News Coach of the Year Shane McGuigan.
The talented Billam-Smith, 27, is undoubtedly one of Bournemouth’s most decorated amateur boxers ever, having represented England and boxed in multiple ABA finals in the unpaid code. Following an impressive run as an amateur boxer, the articulate Billam-Smith has turned to one of the most experienced and successful teams in British and Irish boxing to guide him through the professional ranks.
On Saturday, September 16, six-foot three-inch cruiserweight prospect Billam-Smith makes his professional boxing debut at Bournemouth’s O2 Academy against Derbyshire’s proven operator Russ Henshaw, 7 – 6.
Training alongside the likes of WBA Super World Super Middleweight king George Groves – whom he frequently spars with – and WBC Silver super lightweight champion Josh Taylor at the prestigious McGuigan Gym in London, huge AFC Bournemouth fan Billam-Smith has ample experience to lean on as he begins what is sure to be an exciting professional boxing career.
CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH: “I’m unbelievably excited about turning professional. I never thought I’d turn pro when I started out, but ten years later here I am. I’m training in a gym full of champions, managed by a Hall of Famer and I’m learning every day. I can’t wait to get going this weekend, and to see where this journey can go.”
BARRY McGUIGAN: “We’re absolutely delighted to have Chris on-board. Not only is he an immensely talented prospect, but an exceptionally hard working and good natured human being too. He’s looking better in the gym with each passing week, and I can’t wait to see just how good Chris can become.”
SHANE McGUIGAN: “It’s been a pleasure to work with Chris for the past couple of months, and he’s fitted into the team perfectly. With his brilliant attitude to training and undoubtable boxing pedigree, he has everything required to maximise his potential in the pro game.”
