Billam-Smith beats Okolie to win WBO cruiserweight world title

British fighter claims famous victory

Chris Billam-Smith has won a world title at the first time of asking with Lawrence Okolie suffering a first career defeat.

Billam-Smith, 31, produced a stunning performance to beat Okolie, 29, on points in a thrilling contest at the Bournemouth International Centre on Saturday night.

The fight was a close affair, but Billam-Smith ultimately deserved the victory, winning by scores of 116-112, 115-113 and 117-111.

It is a huge win for Billam-Smith, who is now the WBO cruiserweight world champion.

It is also a major setback for Okolie, who was the favourite to win the fight and is now facing questions about his future.