CRYSTAL AMAZE

Billam-Smith defends title at rival's Palace 'home'

- CHRIS McKENNA

BOURNEMOUTH bruiser Chris Billam-Smith insists he's fired up by stepping on to enemy turf to defend his world title.

The WBO cruiserweight champion has given up home advantage as he puts his crown on the line against Richard Riakporhe.

The South Coast scrapper has agreed to face the Londoner at Crystal Palace's Selhurst Park.

Though Riakporhe, 34, is the challenger he has managed to get the bout at the home of the team he claims to support, after Bournemouth's Vitality Stadium was not in a position to stage another high-profile bout.

Billam-Smith, 33, won the world title by beating Lawrence Okolie there last year.