‘I Seem to Be Getting Better with Age’ — The Remarkable Comeback of Chris Billam-Smith

Rising Above Expectations

Ever heard the saying, “like a fine wine, only gets better with age”? For British boxer Chris Billam-Smith, those words are ringing truer than ever. At 33, when many athletes begin eyeing retirement or considering stepping back, Billam-Smith is charging forward — sharper, stronger, and hungrier than he’s ever been. His recent win over Richard Riakporhe wasn’t just a title defense — it was a statement. And perhaps more importantly, it was personal.

Second Chances & Sweet Redemption

Back in 2019, Riakporhe handed Billam-Smith the only loss of his professional career. Fast forward to their rematch in June 2024, and the tables have turned. In front of a roaring Selhurst Park crowd, Billam-Smith walked away with his WBO cruiserweight title still firmly in hand — and the redemption he waited years to claim. What changed over those five years? According to Chris, it’s simple: he's matured — not just in the ring, but as a man, a husband, a father. And it's that evolution, that grounding in real life, that’s powering him to new heights inside the ropes.

The Power of Perspective

There’s something dignified about a fighter who doesn’t just chase belts but also roots his ambition in deeper meaning. During his post-fight interviews, Billam-Smith wasn’t all bravado. Instead, he spoke about personal growth, family, and the unwavering support from his close-knit team. “It’s about learning from your setbacks, letting them fuel you,” he said. That mindset doesn’t just build champions — it sustains them.

Lessons from One Loss

In a sport where egos run high and unbeaten records often define careers, rebounding from a loss takes guts. But Billam-Smith flipped the script. He didn’t let that defeat define his narrative. Instead, it became a turning point. He's tirelessly worked on every aspect of his game — better footwork, tighter defense, sharper combinations. And yes, he’s stronger — physically and mentally — than ever before. Against Riakporhe, that growth showed. He controlled the tempo, stayed composed, and executed his game plan with precision.

So what’s his secret?

There’s no trick play here — just relentless discipline, year-round improvement, and the humility to learn, even when you're on top. That’s something fans appreciate. A grounded fighter in an often flashy world.

Fighting with Family in His Corner

One of the standout moments post-fight came when Chris kneeled down over the ropes to kiss his young son — a heartwarming contrast to the brutal 12-round battle that had just taken place. “It felt like one of the best moments of my life,” he said. “To win a fight like that and celebrate it with my family… It makes all the tough training, the early mornings, the missed birthdays — it all comes full circle.” Boxing has long been a sport of lone wolves, but Billam-Smith reflects a shift — he’s showing that having a strong off-ring support system might just be the new key to peak performance.

No Signs of Slowing Down

If you thought age might slow down Chris Billam-Smith, think again. “I feel like I’m getting better with age,” he said after the win. And he’s not just saying that — his recent performances back it up. His stamina? Impeccable. His reactions? Quick. His mindset? Locked in. It’s not so much about the number on his birth certificate, but how he’s using experience as an edge. While younger challengers may bring fury, Billam-Smith brings finesse. Strategy. Timing. These days, fights aren’t just won with fists — they’re won with IQ, and that’s a battle he’s mastering.

What's Next for the Champ?

With his victory over Riakporhe cementing his hold on the WBO cruiserweight title, the road ahead is both exciting and full of opportunities. Mandatory defenses are on the horizon, possibly even unification bouts with other titleholders. But Billam-Smith isn’t getting ahead of himself. He’s focused on the present and on fine-tuning his craft. Whether it’s spending more hours at Shane McGuigan’s gym or keeping his diet in check, he’s committed to longevity. Fans are already buzzing about potential matchups — could a fight with Jai Opetaia or Badou Jack be on the horizon? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: Chris Billam-Smith is far from done.

A Role Model in the Ring

In an era where headlines often gravitate toward controversy and showboating, Billam-Smith offers a refreshing alternative. He’s respectful, hardworking, and — perhaps most importantly — relatable. He reminds us that resilience pays off, that growth doesn’t stop at 30, and that success is sweeter when it's earned, not handed. His journey also sends a message to young fighters: it's okay to stumble — just don’t stay down.

Final Thoughts: The Growth of a Champion

Chris Billam-Smith's story isn’t just about boxing. It's about personal evolution. About overcoming setbacks. About finding strength not only in training camps, but in being a husband, a father, a fighter with perspective. He’s proving that experience can be a strength, not a setback. That with the right mindset, age is just another number — one that, for Billam-Smith, seems to be pointing upward. So, what’s the takeaway? Don’t count someone out just because they're on the “wrong” side of 30. Some fighters are just hitting their stride. And Chris Billam-Smith? He might be leading that charge.

The Final Bell

From overcoming a single painful loss to defending his world title in style, Billam-Smith inspires not just with his fists, but with his journey. He may be aging — but he’s aging up, not out. So, next time you hear someone say age slows you down, point them to Chris Billam-Smith. Because right now, he’s proving otherwise — one punch at a time.