Former sparring partners Lawrence Okolie and Chris Billum-Smith clash in a world title fight this weekend.
Okolie enters Billam-Smith’s home town of Bournemouth with the WBO middleweight belt and an unbeaten record, but the challenger will be well supported at his beloved AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium.
In his most recent fight, Okolie bested David Light in March, with the beaten New Zealander suffering a ‘slight stroke’ but expected to make a ‘full recovery’. Meanwhile, Billum-Smith produced a Knockout of the Year contender against Arment Shokhshaj in December.
Okolie (19-0, 14 KOs) said of Billum-Smith (17-1, 12 KOs) this week: “Chris, I love you, but I’ve got to get the KO in this one.”
Here’s everything you need to know.
When is that?
The clash will take place at Premier League side AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium on Saturday 27 May.
The main card is scheduled to begin at 7pm BST (11am PT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET), with the main event expected to ring around 10pm BST (3pm PT, 5pm CT, 6pm ET).
How can I see?
The event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK, with the broadcaster’s website and Sky Go app also streaming the fights.
No US broadcasters have been confirmed for the event.
opportunities
Okolie is undefeated and reigning WBO middleweight champion (Steven Boston/PA)
(PA wire)
Envelope – 2/7
Billum-Smith – 4/11
Tie – 14/1
Full Card (Subject to Change)
Lawrence Okolie (c) vs. Chris Billum-Smith (WBO cruiserweight title)
Michael Lawal (c) vs. Isaac Chamberlain (British middleweight title)
Lee Cutler vs Stanley Stannard (Superweight)
Mace Rook v Dean Dodge (Super Featherweight)
Sam Eggington vs Joe Pickford (Super Middleweight)
Michael McGinson vs. TBA (Welterweight)
Tommy Welch vs. TBA (Heavyweight)
Karris Ardingsall vs Jade Taylor (Featherweight)
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Henry Blackwell is a contributor at Mediarunsearch.co.uk, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. His work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism.