Isaac Chamberlain Fights Michal Cieslak for the European Cruiserweight Title on the Chris Billam-Smith Vs. Richard Riakporhe Undercard

Isaac Chamberlain will challenge Polish champion Michal Cieslak for the European Cruiserweight Championship at Selhurst Park, home of Crystal Palace FC, live on Sky Sports on Saturday June 15.

Cieslak vs. Chamberlain is the first in a series of major undercard announcements for a blockbuster evening of boxing celebrating Selhurst Park’s 100th anniversary, headlined by the epic all-British world title showdown between WBO World Champion Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe Cruiserweight Championship.

Chamberlain (16-2, 8 KOs) was named mandatory challenger for Cieslak’s European crown following a dominant points win over London rival Mikael Lawal for the British and Commonwealth titles at York Hall in October.

The Brixton fighter will make the short journey across south London to Crystal Palace FC’s Selhurst Park stadium for a second shot at European glory, having previously lost a points decision to Billam in their fight for the blue and gold belt in July 2022 -Smith had lost.

“We gave up the British title to go to world level,” Chamberlain said. “I am grateful that this is a chance to become European champion. This will show that I am world class and destined to become world champion. A win over Cieslak puts me in the top 5 of all governing bodies and on the threshold of a world title fight.

“Getting this opportunity at such a big stadium event makes it even better. I’m sure South London will be a success and Selhurst Park will be rocking on June 15th when I’m crowned the new European Champion.”

The 30-year-old will face hard-hitting Poland Cieslak (26-2, 20 KOs), a former two-time world title challenger who secured the European title in April 2023 with a knockout victory over Dylan Bregeon and has since defended the victory with a stoppage victory about the former European champion Tommy McCarthy.

Cieslak returns to London following his February 2022 fight with Lawrence Okolie for the WBO cruiserweight world title at the O2 Arena and is expected to bring a significant Polish fanbase with him to Selhurst Park as he looks to work his way back into world title contention.

“My goal is to fight for the world championship again, but I am aware that defending my European title, especially against a dangerous and high-quality fighter like Isaac Chamberlain, brings me closer to this goal,” said Cieslak. “This is another step for me to make my dreams come true. If I want to become world champion, I have to win against rivals like Chamberlain.”

“My debut on British soil ended in defeat, so now I have extra motivation to get revenge. I am maturing and making progress with each achievement. My last fight ended quicker than I thought it would, so I’m hoping that’s it.” After the showdown with Chamberlain, I’ll have the opportunity to have fun in the ring a little longer.

Fans at the big GAME ON! The show will be part of history as boxing returns to Selhurst Park in its centenary year.

The epic clash between Billam-Smith and Riakporhe is the culmination of a major program in south London and kicks off a huge summer of world-class sport with a blockbuster evening of World Championship boxing and celebrations.

“We’re excited to add another major cruiserweight bout to the must-watch boxing event of the summer,” said Ben Shalom, Founder and CEO of Boxxer. “It’s a massive moment for Isaac Chamberlain as he looks to achieve European glory at home in South London against a formidable champion in Michal Cieslak. This is the first in a series of major undercard announcements for June 15th. So register now to gain access to pre-sale tickets to secure your place for an unforgettable night of boxing at Selhurst Park.”

Mick Hennessy, Isaac Chamberlain’s manager, added: “I’m over the moon for Isaac. He’s had one of the toughest journeys I’ve ever seen in boxing, but he doesn’t get the respect he deserves. Young men like him do.” He’s told to give up on his dreams, but here he is in a fight that will bring him one step closer to a world title. And when he finally wins it, it will truly be a Rocky-esque story!”

A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace FC, which has been working with the community for over 25 years, helping and inspiring young people to grow through the power of sport to find a better path in life and lead a healthier life.