EXCITING cruiserweight Chris Billam-Smith was happy to get further rounds under his belt during his victorious return to Bournemouth.

The 27-year-old extended to five knockout victories his perfect professional record when he stopped durable Romanian Gheorghe Danut at the 02 Academy.

Experienced southpaw Danut lasted longer than all four of Billam-Smith’s previous professional opponents combined, having retired at the end of the fifth round.

But ‘The Gentleman’ insisted the contest provided a perfect platform for him to acquire more knowledge of the pro ranks.

He told the Daily Echo: “I learned so much more from that fight than all of the other four. It was the perfect fight for this stage of my career and I was really happy with it.

“I knew he was going to be tough. I was actually surprised how tough because I hit him with some massive shots to the head and wobbled him a couple of times.

“I hurt him on the body consistently but he was very experienced and knew what to do to keep himself safe.

“The fourth and fifth rounds were new territory for me but it was good to feel comfortable in those. It’s good to know you are still carrying power throughout and consistently hurting the opponent.

“There are still things to work on. I could have used my jab a bit more and judged the range a little better.”

The contest was Billam-Smith’s second fight in Bournemouth as a professional.

He made his debut in his hometown under the Cyclone Promotions stable against Russ Henshaw in September.

And the former Stourfield Junior pupil insisted his latest outing was one he would treasure.

“The place was absolutely rocking,” added Billam-Smith.

“It was fantastic and by far the best atmosphere I have ever had for myself, as an amateur or a professional.

“They weren’t all there for me but my fans were supporting the other lads as well. It was really good and I absolutely loved it.”

Ex-Poole ABC puncher Billam-Smith is expected to contest his next bout in June.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth middleweight Matty Legg missed out on his opportunity to claim the Southern Area title.

The 25-year-old suffered his third defeat as a professional when he retired after seven rounds against Tey Lynn Jones.

Legg’s professional record now stands at seven wins and three defeats.