CRUISERWEIGHT boxer Chris Billam-Smith broke down in tears while listening to messages from his nearest and dearest ahead of this weekend’s world title fight.
The 34-year-old will face WBA title holder Gilberto Ramirez on Saturday in a bid to become unified champion.
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In the build-up to the fight, CBS – the reigning WBO champion – sat down with Sky Sports to receive some voice notes from his closest friends and family.
Former Commonwealth Games gold medallist Barry McGuigan, who is the father of Billam-Smith’s trainer, was the first to deliver a message.
He said: “Chris Billiam-Smith. What a phenomenal athlete. Incredibly determined, incredibly focused, incredibly driven.
“Such a great human being in so many ways. Everybody looks to Chris for how to set the trend.
“He’s just a great man and I cannot say enough good things about him.”
Billam-Smith also received a message from Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who said: “Hello champ, it’s Rambo.
“I just wanted to wish you all the best. I’m just hoping for a CBS win and then some time with the family. Get yourself back to watching me play football!
“No, honestly, just go out there and do your stuff which we all know you’re capable of doing.”
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The cruiserweight champ then began to tear up when listening to a note from his best friend, Mike.
He said: “Billam, where do I even begin? It feels like yesterday we were boys messing about on our bikes and mopeds, trying to make our mark in the world.
“Well you’ve certainly done that, and I couldn’t be prouder of the man you’ve become today.
“Your resilience and determination inspire everyone around you.
“They also say you should never meet your heroes, now I’ve been blessed because my hero is also my best mate.
“You’ve lived up to every expectation and you’ve surpassed them in ways I’d never imagined.
“Your courage, kindness and spirit make me strive to do better in my own life.”
The tears continued when he listened to a heartfelt message from his mum, Carol, who said: “Chris, I’m so proud of you.
“You’ve accomplished so much. You’re kind, generous, funny, respectful, and you’ve done so much for boxing. I love you so much. Let’s get to Saudi Arabia and get another win!”
Finally, Billam-Smith heard from his wife, Mia, and young son, Frank, who said his dad is going to “bring home another belt” for Christmas.
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He went on to open up about how hard he has found it being away from his family for so long while training.
CBS’ unified title clash with Ramirez is set to take place at The Venue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday.
