Billam-Smith stops Rozicki by TKO in Zuffa Boxing UK debut
7 reported
Chris Billam-Smith defeated Ryan Rozicki by technical knockout in the seventh round of their bout in Bournemouth, marking Zuffa Boxing’s first UK event. The former WBO cruiserweight champion landed a combination of hooks at the end of the seventh, leading Rozicki’s corner to throw in the towel. Both fighters received in-ring treatment, with Rozicki requiring oxygen, and were later taken to hospital, according to Zuffa Boxing chief Dana White. Billam-Smith did not take part in post-fight media activities. The fight was action-packed from the start, with Rozicki warned for using his head and deducted a point in the second round. Scorecards showed all three judges had Billam-Smith leading before the stoppage. The event took place amid threats of legal action from British promoter Boxxer over claims that Billam-Smith and other fighters were competing without consent.
What’s reported
Chris Billam-Smith defeated Ryan Rozicki by TKO in the seventh round.
The fight was Zuffa Boxing’s first UK show, held at Bournemouth International Centre.
Both fighters went to hospital after the bout, per Dana White.
Rozicki was warned for using his head in the first round and deducted a point in the second.
Scorecards showed Billam-Smith leading 68-64, 68-64, and 69-63 before the stoppage.
Billam-Smith’s 22nd victory in 24 professional fights.
The event faced threats of legal action from Boxxer over claims of unauthorized competition.
Key figures
Chris Billam-Smith (British boxer, former WBO cruiserweight champion)
Ryan Rozicki (Canadian boxer)
Dana White (Zuffa Boxing chief)
Shane McGuigan (Billam-Smith’s coach)
Conor Benn, Derek Chisora, David Adeleye (boxers in attendance)
Jim Frevola (AFC Bournemouth co-CEO)
Nick Khan (Zuffa Boxing executive)
Lone’er Kavanagh (UFC flyweight)
Finn Balor (WWE wrestler)
Lee Cutler (Bournemouth middleweight)
Jai Opetaia (Australian cruiserweight, Zuffa cruiserweight belt holder)
Gilberto Ramirez (boxer)
Jack Massey, Sam Hickey (fighters mentioned in legal context)
Sources: BBC News
