The eagerly awaited boxing match between Chris Eubank Junior and Conor Benn on April 26th is not just significant for the rivalry between the two fighters; it also features an undercard with potential highlights that deserve attention. Among the notable fights on this card is the cruiserweight clash between Chris Billam-Smith and Brandon Glanton. These two fighters, both boasting impressive records, promise an engaging contest that could potentially outshine some of the night’s main events.
Chris Billam-Smith, the former WBO cruiserweight champion, enters the ring with a record of 20 wins and 2 losses, with 13 of those victories coming by way of knockout. This 34-year-old boxer is known for his resilience and ability to withstand punches, demonstrated in his previous bout against Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, where he valiantly fought for all 12 rounds despite losing his title. The strenuous nature of that fight, however, raises questions about its toll on Billam-Smith and how he will bounce back for this upcoming event.
On the other hand, Brandon Glanton, hailing from Riverside, California, and known by his moniker “Bulletproof,” has a record that mirrors Billam-Smith’s at 20 wins and 2 losses but boasts a higher knockout ratio of 17. At 32 years old, Glanton possesses the athleticism and raw power that once made him a promising prospect for future championships. However, his trajectory hit a stumbling block when he suffered two controversial decisions to David Light and Soslan Asbarov, but he has since regrouped, winning his last three fights impressively by knockout.
This matchup is a pivotal moment for both fighters. For Billam-Smith, it is not just a chance to reclaim his form but also a pathway back to title contention. Having experienced a grueling contest previously, he needs to prove that he can regain his championship status. His previous resilience serves as a foundation, but one has to wonder whether the physical and psychological aftermath of losing to Ramirez will impact his performance against Glanton.
Conversely, Glanton comes into this fight with increasing confidence, buoyed by recent successful performances, and a determination to carve his own path to a title shot. He has demonstrated an eagerness to put his skills to the test, as he had pursued a fight with Billam-Smith since the latter held the WBO title. Glanton’s preparations include sparring opportunities, such as his sessions with WBC cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian, from which Glanton claims to have emerged victorious. This assertion, along with his previous bouts, sets the stage for him to create a significant upset in the UK.
As both fighters gear up for this encounter, the factors influencing the outcome are multifaceted. Billam-Smith’s extensive experience against elite competition gives him an edge in terms of ring IQ, but the lingering effects of his last fight with Ramirez could be detrimental. Questions abound regarding his ability to withstand Glanton’s explosive power; Glanton has shown little signs of vulnerability in his career thus far, which may give him the confidence to press the action.
Another aspect to consider is each fighter’s mentality heading into the bout. Glanton’s hunger to establish himself in the cruiserweight division against a respected opponent can push him to deliver an extraordinary performance. On the flip side, Billam-Smith’s desire to reclaim his status as a champion and prove he is not defined by a single loss may provide the motivation he needs to dig deeper than ever before.
The undercard featuring Billam-Smith and Glanton undoubtedly adds intrigue to the already high-profile Eubank vs. Benn event. Both fighters possess the skills, experience, and determination to deliver an exciting match that captivates fans. As they prepare to duke it out, the anticipation builds—will Billam-Smith reclaim his stature, or will Glanton make a grand entrance into the UK boxing scene as a legitimate contender? With so much on the line, the outcome of this fight will likely reverberate throughout the cruiserweight division, setting the stage for future championship opportunities and rivalries.
Leave a Reply