This week’s panellists were asked to pick a winner in the intriguing all-British cruiserweight showdown between Chris Billam-Smith and Isaac Chamberlain
Linus Udofia (Middleweight contender)
Billam-Smith is active, he’s dominant, he’s big for the weight, and I think his size and activity in the last three years will play a big part in how the fight goes. Chamberlain is a very good fighter, a naturally more talented fighter who is spiteful with his punches, but I just think Billam-Smith has that edge in experience at this level.
Wayne Alexander (Former European super-welterweight champion)
I see it being a hard-fought and exciting contest, which is good for British boxing. Both are young and hungry, but I see Billam-Smith’s better recent form against more experienced fighters getting him a points win, or maybe even a late stoppage.
Dave Allen (Heavyweight contender)
Billam-Smith should be a clear favourite. He has good wins at British and European level which marks him a few levels above Chamberlain. Chamberlain is no doubt talented but has yet to show this talent on the big stage. He is not at the level he will need to be to best CBS.
Dave Coldwell (Top trainer)
It’s a really good fight. I like how Isaac had that blip against Lawrence Okolie and went away and sacrificed a lot. He lives the life. I also think he has the edge in speed and skills here, but Billam-Smith is one of these tough, strong, heavy-handed punchers with plenty of bottle. I favour Chamberlain because of his skills and IQ, but it’s 51-49.
