RICHARD Riakporhe insists he is “hungrier now than I’ve ever been” after defeat to Chris Billam-Smith at Selhurst Park.

The pair did battle for the WBO cruiserweight title in south London earlier this month, Billam-Smith claiming victory by unanimous points decision after 12 rounds.

It marked the first defeat of Riakporhe’s professional career, the 34-year-old being the only man to previously defeat Billam-Smith.

For Bournemouth star Billam-Smith (20-1), he is now moving on to look towards unification fights to try and dominate the cruiserweight division, while Riakporhe (17-1) will be looking to build again towards world level.

Taking to Instagram to discuss the loss, in front of his home crowd, Riakporhe wrote: “I’ve been reflecting on what went wrong and I’m really disappointed not to have got the result I worked so hard for.

“I don’t have all the answers yet and I’m going to keep analysing and working through it. One thing I do know is that I’m hungrier now than I’ve ever been for success.

“There is no way I’m taking a long break. That just isn’t me. I want to be back in action ASAP and keep improving to make sure there are no more nights like (that).

“Thank you to all the fans and Crystal Palace for the support and making it a truly historic night of boxing.

“All respect to Chris Billam-Smith and his team and congratulations on your win. 1-1.

“The Midnight Train is still on the tracks. See you all down the road.”