Chris Billam-Smith is a fighter with a clear vision and a plan, and he's ready to take on the cruiserweight division once again. But here's where it gets interesting: he's eyeing some big names and potential title shots, including a controversial heavyweight option.
After losing his WBO title in a unification bout with Gilberto Ramirez, Billam-Smith took a step back and reassessed. He returned with a solid win, and now he's focused on positioning himself for those big fights.
The Cruiserweight Conundrum
While Billam-Smith's heart lies in the cruiserweight division, he's aware that not all meaningful fights are at the 200-pound mark. One name that keeps popping up is Deontay Wilder, a potential bridge to the heavyweight division.
Billam-Smith isn't shying away from this challenge. He sees it as a specific fight, not a career shift. He's open about his dislike for the heavyweight division as a whole, but Wilder is an exception.
"I don't think my style suits heavyweight boxing," he said. "But a fight with Wilder? That's a different story. I'd love that challenge."
He believes his past experiences against powerful punchers could work in his favor.
The Wilder Exception
Wilder, a known risk and a familiar name, presents an intriguing opportunity. Despite his recent setbacks, a fight with Billam-Smith would still generate attention. But here's the catch: Billam-Smith isn't looking to move up permanently. He's clear that this is a one-off fight, a chance to test himself against a heavyweight legend.
And this is the part most people miss: Billam-Smith isn't just chasing big names. He's strategic. He's focused on the cruiserweight titles, with his eyes on the WBC belt held by Noel Mikaelian. Beating Mikaelian would put him right back in the title picture.
But the division is about to get more complicated. David Benavidez is expected to move up from light heavyweight and challenge Ramirez for the WBA and WBO titles. If that happens, the weight class dynamics will shift dramatically.
"We want Benavidez to beat Zurdo, and then we want to fight him," Billam-Smith said. "That's the plan."
The reasoning is simple: Benavidez beating Ramirez would create a direct link to Billam-Smith's past title loss. It's a practical approach, and one that could set up some exciting fights.
Billam-Smith sees the Benavidez-Ramirez fight as a close one. "Zurdo is the favorite, but it's a tough call. Benavidez has the style to trouble him."
He's not afraid to call out the big names and the big fights. Las Vegas is still on his radar, a dream he hasn't given up on.
The Road to Opetaia
Above all, Billam-Smith has his sights set on Jai Opetaia, the IBF champion. He's mapped out a clear path: Mikaelian first, then Benavidez, and finally Opetaia. Three fights, each building towards the next, and each bringing him closer to his goals.
This route gives him control, leverage, and the titles he desires. It's a strategic move, and one that shows his understanding of the boxing landscape.
"In an ideal world, this would be the route," he said. But he's also aware that boxing can be unpredictable. Plans can change, but his direction is clear.
So, what do you think? Is Billam-Smith's plan a smart move, or is he taking on too much? Let us know in the comments!
