REPEAT or REVENGE: CBS-RIAKPORHE set for rematch with world title on the line

Rewind 5 years ago, Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe were both 9-0 heading into a big domestic clash against each other, with the winner looking for more high profile fights in the Cruiserweight division. The loser potentially needing more development before a shot at a world title. It was a great fight that saw Riakporhe victorious, but it was Billam-Smith who went on to secure a world title first. All set for a rematch at Selhurst Park, the stakes are now much bigger.

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The O2 Arena witnessed one hell of a fight in 2019. A back and forth battle that saw Billam-Smith get a count from the ref in the ref in the 7th round, as the ref believed it held him up. It proved pivitol as Riakporhe won a close decision, which remains the most notable win of his career. Riakporhe has been unable to secure the big fights yet and June 15 will be his first shot at a world title. It's an opportunity that 'The Midnight Train' Riakporhe is eager to capitalise on, as he aims to dominate the Cruiserweight division.

After being handed his first loss, Billam-Smith went on to make significant improvements under trainer Shane McGuigan. Building his resume in tough fights and getting big wins against Issac Chamberlain and Tommy McCarthy. Add on a gruesome KO win against Xhoxhaj and 'The Gentleman' Billam-Smith was rewarded with a WBO world title shot against former stablemate Lawrence Okolie. Billam-Smith won that fight in dominating fashion, dropping Okolie three times on his way to a Unanamious Decision victory. #ANDTHENEW WBO Cruiserweight World Champion.

In what is by far the biggest fight in the career of both men, all eyes will be on South London to see who will be vicorious in their rematch. The challenger Riakporhe said he believes Billam-Smith is detoriating, due to the number of tough fights the champ has already been in during his career. Billam-Smith views it as experience. Experience that Riakporhe severely lacks in his career, having won most of his fights by KO. Both fighters' resistance will be tested in the fight, but who will be able to deal more damage to their opponent?

Riakporhe (17-0, 13 KOs) is the favourite in the fight, and I believe his strength and power will be enough to secure the world title. I can see Billam-Smith (19-1, 13 KOs) pressing Riakporhe early, trying to assert himself in the fight. His experience will be cruical as he tries to take Riakporhe into deep waters. But I see Billam-Smith's previous fights taking a toll in the later rounds, and if the fresher Riakporhe can survive the storm early, I have Riakporhe winning this fight by KO Rounds 8-10.

Easier said than done as Billam-Smith has serious power, much more than when they first fought, as proven by his big wins since. Two cruiserweights who carry significant KO threats to each other make this a very exciting fight, and one I'm really looking forward to seeing.

- AE