Isaac Chamberlain is determined to prove he is “world-class” when he aims to become the European cruiserweight champion against current title holder Michal Cieslak on June 15 in London.
Chamberlain (16-2-0 8 KO) won the British and Commonwealth titles in his most recent fight – a comfortable points win over Mikael Lawal in October last year – but he has relinquished those belts for another shot at European glory.
The Londoner has fought once before for the European title but came up short against Chris Billam-Smith, who will headline the event at Selhurst Park – the stadium of Premier League soccer club Crystal Palace. Billiam-Smith is making the second defense of his WBO cruiserweight world title against Richard Riakporhe.
Chamberlain’s victory over Lawal made him Cieslak’s mandatory challenger, and he believes a win against the Polish champion will propel him to world title contention.
Chamberlain Targets World Titles
“We relinquished the British title to step up to world level,” said Chamberlain. “I’m grateful that this is a chance to be European Champion. This will show that I’m world class and destined to be champion of the world. A win over Cieslak puts me top five in all the governing bodies and on the cusp of a world title fight.
“To get this opportunity on such a big stadium event makes it even sweeter. I’m sure South London is going to turn out and Selhurst Park will be rocking on June 15th when I’m crowned the new European Champion.”
Chamberlain would be wise not to look past the champion, though. Cieslak (26-2-0 20 KO) is a ferocious puncher whose only defeats came in world title bouts against two champions, Ilunga Junior Makabu in 2020 and Lawrence Okolie in 2022.
Since the loss to Okolie, Cieslak has reeled off five victories – all by knockout.
Cieslak Ready For ‘Dangerous’ Chamberlain
“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-rated fighter like Isaac Chamberlain brings me closer to that goal,” said Cieslak.
“This is another step for me to reach my dreams. If I want to be world champion, I have to win against rivals like Chamberlain. My debut on British soil ended in defeat, so now I will have extra motivation to get even.
“I’m maturing and making progress with every performance. My last fight ended quicker than I thought it would, so I’m hoping that in the showdown with Chamberlain, I’ll have the opportunity to have fun in the ring a little longer.”
Selhurst Park The Stage for ‘Massive Fight’
The event, named GAME ON!, has been arranged to celebrate 100 years of Selhurst Park. A percentage of every ticket sold will be donated to the Palace For Life Foundation, the official charity of Crystal Palace FC.
“We’re excited to add another huge cruiserweight clash to what’s going to be the must-watch boxing event of the summer,” said Boxxer founder and CEO Ben Shalom. “It’s a massive moment for Isaac Chamberlain as looks to claim European glory at home in South London against a formidable champion in Michal Cieslak.
“This is the first of a series of major undercard announcements for June 15th so make sure you sign up now for access to pre-sale tickets to secure your seat for an unmissable night of boxing at Selhurst Park.”
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