Chev Clarke stopped Chris Billiam-Smith in the seventh round at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday, marking the former cruiserweight world champion’s first professional defeat by knockout.
By forcing the stoppage, Clarke improved his professional record to 13-2 with 10 KOs. Billiam-Smith now moves to 22-3 with 14 KOs.
Clarke Secures Seventh-Round Stoppage
Heavy grappling and holding defined the early rounds. Billiam-Smith worked to establish a rhythm using a jab and body shots, but Clarke responded with sharp combinations and heavy right hands.
The seventh round ended the contest. Clarke landed a massive right hand that sent Billiam-Smith to the canvas for the first time in his career, forcing an eight-count. As Billiam-Smith stood on wobbly legs, Clarke delivered further combinations. Referee Lee Every intervened to wave off the fight at the 1:24 mark of the round.
The stoppage drew immediate reactions from those present. BBC reported that fight promoter Dana White suggested the decision to stop the contest might have been slightly premature. Billiam-Smith expressed similar frustration, protesting the end of the fight while appearing unsteady.
The Rivalry Continues After a Decade
Clarke repeated a feat from his amateur career. Thisisthecoast highlighted that while Billiam-Smith had successfully transitioned from an amateur to an elite professional champion, Clarke once again emerged victorious in their latest encounter.
Billiam-Smith previously lost to Gilberto Ramirez in 2024 and Richard Riakporhe in 2019. He remained composed in his post-fight assessment, acknowledging the impact of the decisive blow:
I’m fine. It was a good shot. He buzzed me, obviously. It was a great shot. I made a mistake, but I felt like I was winning the fight.
Clarke Targets Cruiserweight Titles
Clarke now seeks recognition within the cruiserweight division. This victory follows a period of rebuilding after he suffered consecutive defeats in 2025.
Clarke focused on his own progression rather than his status as an underdog. I do what champions do,
Clarke said, adding that he intends to take on all challengers moving forward. He also noted his satisfaction with his preparation and recent success, stating: I’m happy. Arsenal won and I won. My training camp was good and you saw that in the ring. I’ll take all-comers going forward.
Earlier coverage: Billam-Smith vs Clarke: Revenge and Rivalry at Zuffa Boxing 12
Chev Clarke stops Chris Billam-Smith! 👊 pic.twitter.com/6nE8EZVu5f
