Chris Billam-Smith targets unification fights after impressive victory
Kosport Magazine – After a thrilling performance on Saturday evening at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park, Chris Billam-Smith has set his sights on unification fights with some of the top names in the cruiserweight division.
The 34-year-old British fighter, who had previously suffered a defeat at the hands of Richard Riakporhe in 2019, showcased his discipline and intelligence in the ring, securing a dominant victory with scores of 116-111, 115-112 and 115-112.
Many had doubted Billam-Smith’s capabilities after his last win over Mateusz Masternak, but he proved them all wrong by delivering what can be considered his finest performance to date.
With the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles up for grabs, Billam-Smith has his eyes set on Gilberto Ramirez, Noel Mikaelian, and Jai Opetaia. These unification fights not only promise to be big paydays for the British fighter, but also a chance to solidify his position as the top cruiserweight in the world.
His trainer, the highly acclaimed Shane McGuigan, expressed his desire to see these fights happen while Billam-Smith is at his peak. McGuigan, who has previously worked with boxing greats like Carl Frampton and George Groves, sees Billam-Smith as one of his biggest successes yet.
“We’ve got to go for a unified world title. I would love that. I’d like that against Ramirez or Noel Mikaelian, the WBC champion, and then we’d look to box [Jai] Opetaia early next summer. That’s the dream fight. Why wouldn’t we want to do that for an undisputed [title]? Challenges are the most important thing,” said McGuigan.
He also praised Billam-Smith’s ability to rise to the occasion, citing his wins against favored opponents like Lawrence Okolie and Richard Riakporhe. “Some fighters are fantastic in the gym – got every skill every world – and other fighters can go and perform and execute out there when it really matters, and that’s Chris Billam-Smith. He strives for minor percentages, and over time it’s always accumulated.”
As for Billam-Smith, he credits his success to the working relationship he has with McGuigan. The two constantly analyze and improve on his performances, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of perfection.
“He’s been unbelievable to work with,” said Billam-Smith of his trainer. “At the top level, physically, he’s there, but how you strategically manage your energy throughout the fight, and that confidence and belief that you’ve got – that’s where you get your extra percentages. It was 10 times the performance of [that against] Masternak.”
With two stadium fights already under his belt, Billam-Smith shows no signs of slowing down. And with the guidance of McGuigan, he plans to leave no room for doubt in his abilities as he continues to dominate the cruiserweight division.
Kosport Magazine’s Take:
At Kosport Magazine, we are thrilled to see the rise of Chris Billam-Smith under the tutelage of Shane McGuigan. His unrelenting drive to constantly improve and challenge himself has proven to be a recipe for success.
We eagerly await the possibility of unification fights for Billam-Smith and can only imagine the excitement and intensity they will bring to the world of boxing. With his recent victory, Billam-Smith has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for this exceptional fighter. Keep an eye out for more updates on Chris Billam-Smith and his journey to becoming an undisputed champion.
