EPISODE 547: Chris Billam-Smith
Not Good Enough for Football with World Champion Boxer
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Screw It Just Do It, I sit down with the Chris Billam-Smith, the reigning World Boxing Organization cruiserweight champion.
Born in Epsom and brought up in Bournemouth, Chris’s story is not just about punches and knockouts; it’s a tale of relentless perseverance, overcoming setbacks, and an undying passion for boxing that saw him rise from a humble beginning to holding multiple titles including the European, British, and Commonwealth cruiserweight championships.
Chris shares intimate details about his journey in the ring, from his emotional victory dedicated to his mother to the lifestyle changes that shaped his career trajectory. He discusses the critical role of recovery tools like sleep, the mental resilience forged through tough times, and his vision for the future.
Whether you're a boxing aficionado or just love a good fight story, this episode is packed with powerful insights into what it takes to be a champion both in and outside the ring.
KEY TOPICS DISCUSSED
The Role of Resilience: Chris shares his experiences with overcoming significant challenges, including a pivotal moment in his career after a defeat that could have derailed many. His comeback story is a powerful testament to the resilience needed not just in sports but in any endeavour.
The Importance of Recovery: An enlightening take from Chris revolves around recovery, particularly sleep, which he describes as pivotal not only to physical recovery but as a cornerstone of performance. It’s a reminder that rest is not merely downtime, but a critical component of success.
The Power of Dedication: Listening to Chris, it becomes evident that passion alone isn’t enough; it’s the consistent dedication to your craft that truly sets you apart. His routine, discipline, and the sacrifices he makes are a blueprint for anyone aiming to excel in their field.
CONNECT WITH CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH
Instagram: @chrisbillam
Twitter: @chrisbillam
Facebook: @chrisbillamsmith
ABOUT THE GUEST
Chris Billam-Smith, an English professional boxer, holds the prestigious World Boxing Organization cruiserweight title as of May 2023. His journey to the top included clinching the European, British, and Commonwealth cruiserweight titles between 2019 and 2022, showcasing his dominance in the ring. Born on August 2, 1990, in Epsom, Surrey, and raised in Bournemouth from the age of three, Billam-Smith's sporting journey was varied and rich, engaging in everything from football to fencing. Despite not shining as an amateur, his relentless work ethic and passion for boxing led to a stellar professional career under Shane McGuigan's guidance. Making his debut in 2017 with a victory over Russ Henshaw, he quickly rose through the ranks, even overcoming a professional setback against Richard Riakporhe to capture the Commonwealth title in 2019 and successfully defend it along with the European title. His story is one of perseverance, resilience, and undying love for boxing, embodying a true Cinderella story in the sport.
