Southern Area champ Sam Smith eyes Celtic, English or British titles next

Southern Area champion Sam Smith balances farm life with boxing

Few boxers juggle the demands of an area championship with the rigours of lambing season, but Bodmin Moor's own Sam Smith does just that. Fresh off a career-defining victory, the full-time farmer is set to return to the ring close to home this Saturday night at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay for BCB Promotions' 'Clash on the Coast 2'.

The 31-year-old, who has significantly ramped up his commitment to boxing, showcased his dedication in his last outing. As a considerable underdog, Smith dominated the previously unbeaten James Osborne, dropping him twice en route to a 96-93 points decision and securing his first professional title, the prestigious Southern Area belt.

“I was fighting at a better weight; super middle is definitely a good option for me," Smith reflected on his breakthrough performance. "I felt really great in there; everything went well in the build-up; I was training twice a day, three times a week, and taking it far more seriously. I have always believed in myself, and I knew the better the opponent, the more I would deliver.”

Despite only having six professional fights, the Launceston Boxing Club talent boasts an impressive draw with River Wilson Bent and a durable performance against the highly touted George Liddard, alongside his newly acquired title. Smith is eager to maintain his momentum and, for his seventh professional bout, he's matched with the vastly experienced 72-fight veteran Robbie Chapman.

“I'm looking forward to putting on a good performance," Smith stated. "I have been out of the ring a little while, and I'm in with someone in Robbie, who is experienced, and you don't know how good someone is until you are in there with them, so I won't take him lightly. I've been working hard in the gym, and I have got a great sponsor in my strength and conditioning coach, Connor from Body & Motion LTD. I've been sparring with Ben Andrews and Aaron Bird, who are both on the show, and my brother Wes, who is a really good boxer.”

The 'Clash on the Coast 2' card features a strong lineup, including former British champion Brad Pauls, debutant Charlie Ryder, and the experienced Kristine Shergold, alongside Ben Andrews and Aaron Bird. Boxing shows in the Southwest are a rarity, and with the sport experiencing a surge in popularity and local gyms buzzing, Smith understands the crucial role these events play in fostering growth.

“It can be hard to get people off their seats to come out to shows, so it's important we put on good events down here and keep the sport going round this way," Smith emphasised. "I need to stay active and keep winning, and then I'd like to box for the Celtic, English or British title. It's a really good card on Saturday. For me, it's about getting the win, and I'm excited about the possibility of what comes next.”

Tickets for 'Clash on the Coast 2' are available now, priced at £45 for general admission and £80 for VIP. They can be purchased directly from the boxers or by emailing info@bcb-promotions.com