Ben Shalom: Promoter praises Chris Billam-Smith’s mentality after defeat

His journey since signing with promoter Shalom has been filled with success, fighting in his hometown of Bournemouth four times in a row as well as headlining twice in Premier League stadiums.

One of those was his hometown ground the Vitality Stadium where AFC Bournemouth play and where he won his WBO title.

“When I first met Chris he couldn’t even dream of a world title,” Shalom added.

“I’ve seen him change his life and come through so many milestones and the best thing about it is that he has not changed at all, he’s still the same guy I first met three years ago.

“That’s the measure of the man, I can’t speak highly enough of him and he should be an inspiration for every professional boxer that with hard work and consistency you can get to the very top.”

The incentive for the winner of the bout prior to Saturday night was the opportunity to then further unify the cruiserweight division and face the other champions on a path to try to claim all of the titles.

With Ramirez coming out on top it now remains unclear as to where Billam-Smith will next take his professional boxing career.

Aged 34 and with a record of 20 wins and two defeats, many might consider it a decent time to hang up the gloves but the Briton refused to make any concrete plans after the fight – other than enjoying the upcoming festive period and getting straight back in the gym.