Chris Billam-Smith has made his next move clear, and it’s aimed straight at the top of the cruiserweight division.
Following his new deal with Zuffa Boxing, the former world champion is already targeting a showdown with Jai Opetaia, widely regarded as the division’s leading figure. For Billam-Smith, the mission is simple: “For me, it’s about fighting the best… everyone sees Jai Opetaia as the best, and that’s what I want to do.”
At 35, Billam-Smith sees this as the final chapter of his career. The multi-fight deal with Zuffa could carry him through his remaining years in the sport, and he’s approaching it with urgency. “If my career had ended and I’d not boxed Jai Opetaia, I’d be very annoyed,” he admitted.
The Bournemouth fighter has already tested himself at the top level. He famously dethroned Lawrence Okolie to win a world title and later faced Gilberto Ramirez, a loss that he says taught him valuable lessons. But in his eyes, beating Opetaia is the clearest route back to the very top. “Beating Jai Opetaia would make me the number one in the world.”
Importantly, Billam-Smith’s focus isn’t on belts anymore. “The belts are great… but the belt doesn’t make him the best in the division,” he said.
Before any blockbuster clash, he is expected to return in May or June against what he described as a “world-class opponent.” And if Zuffa’s approach holds true - “there’s no gimmies in this game” - that next fight will likely be another serious test.
Image Credit: Sky Sports