BOURNEMOUTH puncher Chris Billam-Smith expects there to be no “bad blood” in the build-up to the biggest fight of his professional career.

The 28-year-old, who stopped Italy’s Yassine Habachi on Friday, is set to challenge Richard Riakporhe for the WBA Inter-Continental Cruiserweight title at the O2 Arena on July 20.

Unbeaten Riakporhe wished Billam-Smith well ahead of his tune-up contest against Habachi, where he extended to nine wins his perfect professional record.

And the Dorset fighter, nicknamed ‘The Gentleman’ believes both men will have their full focus on fight night, rather than unleashing any verbal barrages.

Asked about Londoner Riakporhe, Billam-Smith told the Daily Echo: “I don’t know him that well but he comes across well and seems quite gentlemanly and respectful.

“I don’t think it’s going to be a bad blood build-up. We are both just ready to get in the ring and put it all on the line, which is what boxing should be about and, recently, British boxing has been.

“People seem to be fighting each other now, which is good.

“We are both hungry to prove ourselves. We both believe we are going to win the fight and I cannot wait for July 20 to put it all on the line.”