Billam-Smith, who beat Lawrence Okolie in May to land the WBO crown, lost to Riakporhe by split decision in 2019 (above).
And he would like nothing more than the opportunity to avenge that defeat in a world title showdown if Anthony Joshua’s pal can become a belt holder by then as well.
Riakporhe was targeting the IBF cruiserweight title belonging to Jai Opetaia, to whom he was the mandatory challenger, but he withdrew from purse bids on Tuesday.
He said then: “It is clear other parties were simply trying to disrupt my journey, which I won’t let happen.
“I have chosen to go a different route and will be sharing news of another world title opportunity very soon.”
Denne historien er fra August 13, 2023-utgaven av Daily Star Sunday.
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Denne historien er fra August 13, 2023-utgaven av Daily Star Sunday.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Howe Kud go in with Mo bid
NEWCASTLE want to compete with Arsenal and Liverpool for £90 million-rated West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus.
Jule tidings
LOPETEGUI UP FOR CHERRIES BATTLE
Oli twist
GLASNER: POINTS MEAN PRIZES
TAYLOR'S SWIFT
Sub Jack wastes no time in grabbing winner
ETIHAD IT? NEVER!
I've no regrets signing my deal I'll stay until the job is done, When we come back it'll be 'Wow'
Phelan's ready to rescue Rooney
MIKE PHELAN couldn’t resist the call from a stricken Plymouth boss Wayne Rooney to join him in the Championship jungle.
Potts loving every sec of chances
MATTHEW POTTS experienced a feeling of “pure elation” when he grabbed the wicket that may have changed the course of England’s third Test against New Zealand.
ALLY PALLY
Two Lukes won't be scrapping like Ali
Hidden Gem
DEUTSCH BANKS PRIZE
PLUMP UP HITS FOR HEFTY HENS
Chill-out tunes get chicks fat
