Gilberto Ramirez Claims Unified WBA and WBO Cruiserweight Titles in Dominant Win Over Chris Billam-Smith

Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez made history in Riyadh, defeating Britain’s Chris Billam-Smith on points to become the unified WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion. The Mexican fighter showcased his dominance, with judges scoring the bout 116-112, 116-112, and 116-113 in his favor.

Ramirez, now 47-1, delivered a commanding performance, landing a series of punishing blows throughout the fight. Despite being bloodied and battered, Billam-Smith exhibited remarkable resilience, staying on his feet for all 12 rounds but falling short of the level needed to dethrone the champion.

Billam-Smith Reflects on Defeat
The loss marks the second on Billam-Smith’s professional record, the first being to Richard Riakporhe in 2019. Reflecting on his performance, the Bournemouth native praised Ramirez’s consistency.

“My initials are CBS, and I say ‘consistency builds success,'” he said. “I think he had the consistency tonight. They deserved the win. I have huge respect for him.”

Billam-Smith hinted at taking a break to regroup, saying, “Next I will enjoy a rest, enjoy Christmas, and keep improving.”

Ramirez Eyes Further Unification
In only his second fight at cruiserweight, Ramirez secured his second world title, cementing his position as a top contender in the division.

“I feel great. I’m a true champion,” Ramirez said. “He was a tough fighter, a strong guy, and it was an honor to fight him. My goal now is to unify all the belts.”

Fight Highlights
The fight started competitively, with Billam-Smith landing clean shots early on. However, Ramirez took control in the following rounds, delivering heavy punches and opening a cut over Billam-Smith’s left eye in the fourth round.

By the seventh round, the damage to Billam-Smith’s eye prompted a ringside doctor’s inspection, though the fight continued. Despite Ramirez tiring in the later rounds, his dominance was never seriously threatened. Billam-Smith’s spirited effort in the final moments proved insufficient against Ramirez’s relentless offense.

A Historic Win for Ramirez
Ramirez’s victory makes him the first Mexican to unify world titles in the cruiserweight division. The stage is now set for potential showdowns with IBF champion Jai Opetaia and WBC champion Noel Mikaelian, both of whom have expressed interest in unification bouts.

While Ramirez celebrates his triumph, Billam-Smith will look to recover and rebuild after a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort on the world stage.