The British cruiserweight champion title is no longer held by Isaac Chamberlain.
Managed and promoted by Hennessy Sports, the 30-year-old has chosen to relinquish his title and assert his position as the mandatory challenger for the European title, which is presently held by Michal Cieslak with a record of 25-2 (19).
In October, Chamberlain had an impressive victory over Mikael Lawal, securing the Lonsdale belt and marking a significant milestone in his career. Since then, he has been engaged in a war of words with Viddal Riley, the English champion. The tension escalated after Riley’s own triumph against Lawal on March 31. Following the fight, Riley spoke to Sky Sports, but Chamberlain swiftly joined the conversation, resulting in a heated exchange. Their argument was then interrupted by Cheavon Clarke, the mandatory challenger for the British cruiserweight title. The situation quickly escalated, prompting the Sky Sports cameras to cut back to Anna Woolhouse, the broadcast host.
Hennessy Sports released a statement today (April 10) in which Chamberlain expressed his desire to obtain the European title. He acknowledged that this is the only title he has pursued but has not yet acquired. Chamberlain is eager to push his limits and defeat reigning champions, with Michal Cieslak serving as the obstacle to his European championship aspirations. While Chamberlain holds great respect for Cieslak’s skill and accomplishments, he is confident that once they enter the ring, a new champion will emerge.
Similar to Chamberlain, Cieslak has previously challenged for a world title but was unsuccessful in two attempts against Ilunga Makabu in 2020 and Lawrence Okolie in 2022. The 34-year-old Polish boxer secured the EBU title a year ago by knocking out Dylan Bregeon, who Chamberlain had defeated in a previous match. Cieslak successfully defended his title by defeating Tommy McCarthy from Ireland in November.
It is yet to be determined if Clarke (promoted by Matchroom) and Riley (promoted by Boxxer) will face each other for the currently vacant British cruiserweight title, as the upcoming circular from the British Boxing Board of Control is expected to be released in the coming days.
