On June 15th, Selhurst Park won't be the sole stage for an electrifying cruiserweight clash with Chris Billam-Smith vs. Richard Riakporhe 2. Boxxer has just unveiled another compelling bout, as Isaac Chamberlain steps up to challenge Michal Cieslak.
Chamberlain (16-2, 8 KO) claimed both the British and Commonwealth titles last October by defeating the undefeated Mikael Lawal via unanimous decision. While he opted out of defending the British title against Cheavon Clarke, preferring to vacate it this month, his decision to do so just before the purse bid seems contentious.
Putting ethical considerations aside, Chamberlain is a formidable contender, with his only professional losses against Lawrence Okolie and Chris Billam-Smith. On the other side, Poland's Cieslak (26-2, 20 KO) has fallen short in two world title attempts, losing a closely contested decision to Ilunga Makabu in 2020 and a less competitive unanimous decision to Okolie two years later. Nevertheless, Cieslak boasts a potent body attack and formidable power, as evidenced by his victory over Tommy McCarthy last November.
Currently ranked No. 2 by the WBO, Cieslak trails Riakporhe, setting the stage for the winner of this bout to potentially secure another shot at the title.