Chris Billam-Smith claims hometown victory over Ryan Rozicki after dramatic stoppage in epic cruiserweight contest

Chris Billam-Smith moved himself back into world title contention after a dramatic stoppage victory over Ryan Rozicki in a bruising cruiserweight clash in Bournemouth.

The hometown hero delivered an impressive display in front of a packed Bournemouth International Centre, although was made to battle hard against an opponent who had seen 20 of his previous 21 victories come via knockout.

Rozicki suffered a cut to his left eye during a gruelling opening round before being deducted a point in the second for throwing his head at his opponent, with Billam-Smith landing a huge right to wobble the Canadian during the third round.

Momentum switched between both men during a fight-of-the-year contender, with Billam-Smith securing victory when Rozicki was pulled out of the contest by his corner - due to his injuries - following the conclusion of the seventh round.

Neither spoke to the media post-fight and both were taken to hospital as a precaution after a gruelling contest, the hardest win of Billam-Smith's career and just Rozicki's second professional loss.

Billam-Smith posted on social media once at the hospital, saying: "I have been taken to hospital but it is very precautionary.

"I am absolutely fine, they are just going to do some tests but all is well.

"Thank you for your support tonight. Another unbelievable night.

"Love you all, thank you so much, and see you all soon."

Rozicki, meanwhile, was discharged from hospital on Sunday morning and returned to his hotel to rest.

Billam-Smith received a warm welcome ahead of his first fight in Bournemouth since 2023, although was quickly made aware of the challenge ahead when Rozicki immediately attacked.

Both traded power punches during a topsy-turvy first round that left Rozicki cut, with the knockout specialist continuing to put pressure on the home favourite with two big hooks and aggressive intent.

Billam-Smith countered back and appeared to leave his opponent in danger in the third round, with Rozicki responding to two big uppercuts on the chin later in the round to pile pressure back on his opponent.

Blood was coming from both eyes as Rozicki continued to throw punches at full power, forcing Billam-Smith into defence at various points during the fourth and fifth rounds, leaving the contest delicately poised heading into the second half of the fight.

Rozicki unleashed huge shots to the head and body of the Bournemouth boxer in the sixth before Billam-Smith charged back with a huge multi-punch combination, bringing the crowd to their feet and moving the contest back towards him.

A late burst from Billam-Smith in the closing stages of the seventh round was the final straw for Rozicki, who appeared determined to continue but was retired by his corner at the conclusion of the round.