Saturday Boxing: Chris Billam-Smith v Armend Xhoxhaj predictions

Free football tips, best bets and analysis for the bout between Chris Billam-Smith v Armend Xhoxhaj in Bournemouth on Saturday.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Arena, from 7pm

Best bet

Chris Billam-Smith to win in rounds one to six
2pts Evs Coral, Lads

Preview

Chris Billam-Smith has had a rapid rise in the cruiserweight division since he was beaten by Richard Riakporhe in 2019, and he can continue on his upward trajectory against Armend Xhoxhaj on Saturday night.

Billam-Smith is likely to step up for a world title fight in the near future and the European and Commonwealth cruiserweight champion should have too much for his Kosovan opponent.

Four of the 32-year-old’s last six knockouts have come within six rounds and this bout could well follow a similar path.

Billam-Smith has spoken of his desire to put on a show in front of his home crowd and both of Xhoxhaj’s defeats, from 16 professional fights, have come within the first six rounds as his aggressive style can sometimes land him in trouble.

Take the Gentleman to land a knockout blow in the first six rounds of this cruiserweight clash.

Earlier on the card, British heavyweights Dan Azeez and Rocky Fielding do battle in what is set to be an entertaining clash.

Fielding is in the veteran stage of his career but has only ever been beaten by Canelo Alvarez and Callum Smith so will be no pushover for the progressive Azeez.

Quotes of 1-6 look short enough for the British light-heavyweight title holder, despite his impressive performances in recent wins.

In the USA the highlight of the night’s action is a competitive clash between two undefeated fighters in an exciting lightweight division.

Michel Rivera styles himself on Muhammad Ali and has had a busy career considering his youth, with an unblemished record of 24 wins. He takes on Frank Martin, who has gone under the radar somewhat as a late bloomer.

Whoever comes out on top will be throwing his hat in the ring to take on the stars of the division such as Gervonta Davis and Devin Haney.

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