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Billam-Smith Stops Rozicki in Zuffa UK Debut

BBC Sport •
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Chris Billam-Smith delivered a gritty technical knockout victory over Ryan Rozicki in the seventh round, marking Zuffa Boxing's UK debut at Bournemouth International Centre. The former WBO cruiserweight champion overwhelmed Rozicki with relentless pressure before the towel came in after the seventh-round combination.

The event faced controversy with threats of legal action from promoter Boxxer over fighter authorization issues. Dana White's promotion signed a broadcast deal with Sky Sports and featured seven of eight fights ending inside the distance, including welterweight Conor Benn and heavyweights Derek Chisora and David Adeleye at ringside.

Both fighters required medical attention post-battle, with Rozicki receiving oxygen before they embraced. Billam-Smith improved to 22 wins in 24 fights, while the Bournemouth crowd experienced another electric atmosphere for the hometown fighter. The physical bout sent both competitors straight to hospital, preventing immediate post-fight media appearances.