Chris Billam-Smith joins Scots star Josh Taylor in the McGuigan stable

Lothians rising star Josh Taylor has a new stablemate in the shape of Bournemouth’s former England amateur international Chris Billam-Smith.

The south coast boxer has signed professional terms with former world champion Barry McGuigan and makes his professional debut on Saturday at Bournemouth’s O2 Academy.

He is coached by 2016 Boxing News Coach of the Year Shane McGuigan who also looks after East Lothian-bord Taylor.

Talented Billam-Smith has represented England and boxed in multiple ABA finals in the unpaid code.

The 6ft 3in cruiserweight prospect faces Derbyshire’s proven operator Russ Henshaw,

A spokesman for Cyclone Promotions, which is run by Barry McGuigan, said: “He trains alongside the likes of WBA super world super middleweight George Groves – whom he frequently spars with – and WBC silver super lightweight champion Josh Taylor at the McGuigan Gym in London.

“Therefore, he has ample experience to lean on as he begins what is sure to be an exciting professional boxing career.”

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