Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth - For the WBO cruiserweight title, Chris Billam-Smith (18-1, 13 KOs) put in a shocking performance as he scored three knockdowns to become a world champion, with a twelve round majority decision over previously undefeated Lawrence Okolie (19-1, 14 KOs). (photos by Lawrence Lustig)
Okolie was also deducted two points for constant holding. The scores were a criminal 112-112 draw, and 116-107 and 115-108 for Billam-Smith.
The two rivals were former sparring partners under trainer Shane McGuigan. Last year, Okolie parted ways with McGuigan and hired United States trainer SugarHill Steward.
