Billam-Smith Seeks Rivalry Revenge After Championship Loss
The boxer aims to settle old scores with Clarke, ten years after their first meeting at the 2016 National Championships.
In a bout of boxing history set to unfold, Billam-Smith is on a quest for redemption against her long-time rival, Clarke. This rivalry traces back to the 2016 National Championships final, where Clarke emerged victorious, setting the stage for a decade-long narrative of competition and ambition 12.
Billam-Smith’s journey to the top was marked by significant milestones, including her ascension to the WBO cruiserweight world champion title in 2023. However, her reign came to an end in November 2024 when she lost to the WBA 'super' champion, Gilberto Ramirez 1. Despite this setback, Billam-Smith found new beginnings with Zuffa Boxing, where she secured a notable victory in her debut match against Ryan Rozicki in June 1.
Clarke, too, has seen his share of success since the 2016 championships. Following his win over Billam-Smith, he achieved the status of an Olympian, a testament to his skill and dedication 2. Meanwhile, Billam-Smith has expressed confidence in her evolution as a professional boxer, distinguishing herself from her earlier amateur style 2.
Adding another layer to this intricate story, Jai Opetaia, the WBA 'regular' champion, recently vacated his cruiserweight title by moving up to the heavyweight division to face Deontay Wilder on December 11th 1. This move creates an opening for Billam-Smith to challenge for the WBA 'regular' cruiserweight title, potentially setting the stage for a rematch with Clarke.
Clarke’s most recent bout showcased his resilience, as he managed to overcome knockdowns to secure a victory over Jack Massey 2. This display of determination adds an extra dimension to the anticipated clash with Billam-Smith, who will be looking to prove that her loss to Clarke in 2016 was merely a stepping stone on her path to greatness.
As these two boxers prepare to meet once again, the stage is set for a thrilling encounter that promises to be more than just a fight—it’s a chapter in a storied rivalry that began a decade ago.
Trust Score report
Likely accurate — probability of truth 68%, weighted across 10 claims from 2 independent outlets.
- confirmed The rivalry between Billam-Smith and Clarke dates back to the 2016 National Championships final, where Clarke won. (87%)
- unverified Chris Billam-Smith and Cheavon Clarke will box against each other on Saturday at London's Copper Box. (53%)
- unverified Billam-Smith and Clarke will fight each other on November 7, 2026, at the Copper Box Arena in London. (47%)
- likely Billam-Smith became the WBO cruiserweight world champion in 2023. (73%)
- likely Billam-Smith's championship reign ended in November 2024 after losing to WBA 'super' champion Gilberto Ramirez. (73%)
- likely Billam-Smith joined Zuffa Boxing and won his debut match against Ryan Rozicki in June. (73%)
- likely Clarke became an Olympian following his 2016 win over Billam-Smith. (71%)
- likely Billam-Smith believes he has evolved as a professional boxer compared to his amateur style. (71%)
- likely Jai Opetaia, the WBA 'regular' champion, moved up to heavyweight to face Deontay Wilder on 11 December. (73%)
- likely Clarke's last fight saw him recover from knockdowns to defeat Jack Massey. (71%)
Sources
- BBC Sport — 10 years in the making - Billam-Smith's revenge mission
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/articles/c6wyrmmpm0pzo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss - Sky Sports — Billam-Smith grudge with Clarke revealed | 'It affected him for years'
https://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12040/13607667/chris-billam-smith-amateur-grudge-with-cheavon-clarke-revealed-only-nine-minutes-but-it-affected-his-life-for-years