Surprisingly, it was the 36-year-old Pole who dominated much of the contest. However, a broken rib led Masternak's corner to withdraw him from the fight at the beginning of the eighth round. Billam-Smith had previously dethroned Lawrence Okolie in May, making him the favorite for the Sunday clash.
Although Billam-Smith took the opening round, Masternak landed significant shots in subsequent rounds. Billam-Smith, perhaps deviating from a strategic plan by attempting powerful blows, faced consequences. Despite not looking in significant trouble, the accumulation of heavy shots from Masternak could have posed a threat in the latter part of the fight.
Unexpectedly, an assault to the body in the seventh round created a breakthrough, and Masternak, who was leading on the scorecards, was reluctantly pulled out of the fight due to visible damage.
Looking ahead, Richard Riakporhe is expected to be Billam-Smith's next opponent in the spring. Riakporhe had previously defeated Billam-Smith via split decision earlier in their careers.
