CHRIS BILLAM-SMITH has admitted he is “heartbroken” after suffering a devastating defeat to Chev Clarke.

The former WBO cruiserweight world champion was stopped in the seventh round of their all-British showdown at London’s Copper Box Arena.

And CBS, 36, has now broken his silence on Instagram, saying: “I’m okay. Heartbroken obviously, but that’s boxing.”

He added: “All respect to Chev. Tonight was his night, and that’s all that can be said, so congratulations to him and his team.”

Billam-Smith had enjoyed some success in the opening six rounds, pressing forward and targeting Clarke’s body.

But disaster struck in the seventh when Clarke, 35, landed a thunderous right hand, flooring CBS for the first time in his professional career.

The Bournemouth boxer bravely got back up but was dropped again before referee Lee Every waved off the contest after 1min 24secs.

The stoppage sparked controversy, with Billam-Smith protesting the decision and trainer Shane McGuigan left furious at ringside.

Zuffa Boxing boss Dana White also questioned the decision, saying: “I thought it was early.”

But Clarke defended the referee, insisting: “If he was blocking the shots he wouldn’t have been dancing.”

CBS said afterwards: “It was a great shot. Made a mistake, but I felt like I was winning the fight.”

And after suffering a third defeat to Clarke, including twice in the amateurs, he demanded another crack, adding: “I’d love to run it back and get him eventually.”