CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH couldn’t contain his tears of joy as he lived out his ultimate dream of becoming a cruiserweight champion. He defeated former gym mate Lawrence Okolie to claim the title, and his wife, Mia, shared the thrilling moment with him. The emotional embrace represented so much more than just a victory in the ring, as only a select few who truly knew the journey and difficulties Billam-Smith had encountered could appreciate. Over 15,000 ecstatic fans cheered him on at the Bournemouth AFC stadium, marking a culmination of the long struggle, sadness, and support he had received.
For Shane McGuigan, Billam-Smith’s coach, who trained numerous top boxers such as David Haye and Carl Frampton, this was his greatest moment in boxing. The story was about the journey to reach this point, and the close relationship between Mia and Billam-Smith was a crucial factor in his success. Although she worries about the dangers he faces in boxing, Mia has always been there for him, and the two of them had imagined this moment together, making it extra special.
As a child, Billam-Smith had dreamed of winning a world title in his hometown of Bournemouth, where he had first been inspired to take up the sport by watching a friend in an amateur bout. From there, he had imagined having a professional fight in his hometown and then headlining at the stadium before eventually winning a world title, just as he had done in his dream. That dream became a reality, but not without facing various obstacles, including falling ill during fight week. However, for Billam-Smith, there was never any question of pulling out, and he was determined to live out his childhood dream.
McGuigan, who himself had used boxing as an escape from personal tragedies, such as the death of his father and brother, recognized that the sport had been a saviour for Billam-Smith, especially during tough times such as his mother’s cancer recurrence. As Billam-Smith’s working relationship with McGuigan developed into a strong friendship, the coach saw the fighter’s potential and dedication, investing in him even though he lacked the hype that surrounded other boxers.