Mexican boxing sensation Gilberto Ramirez is set to take a significant step in his career as negotiations for a cruiserweight title unification bout with Chris Billam-Smith reach their final stages. The highly anticipated fight, tentatively scheduled for November 16 during Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Season, could bring Ramirez closer to cementing his legacy in the sport. Both fighters are in prime form, and fans are eagerly awaiting this showdown, which will not only showcase two top-tier athletes but will also be available for free on TV and digital platforms globally.
Ramirez’s Journey to Cruiserweight Supremacy
Ramirez, also known as “Zurdo,” has been a force to reckon with in the boxing world. After moving up to the cruiserweight division, Ramirez captured the WBA title with an impressive performance in March 2023, defeating Arsen Goulamirian in Inglewood. A fighter with remarkable versatility and a solid record, Ramirez has only one loss in his career, and that came against the formidable Dmitry Bivol in the light heavyweight division. Now, at cruiserweight, he has established himself as a top contender, and his upcoming fight against Billam-Smith offers him the chance to unify titles and solidify his place among the elite.
The Mexican fighter has always had the backing of a passionate fanbase, but this unification fight will give him the chance to shine on a global stage. The stakes couldn’t be higher for Ramirez, who has been waiting for this kind of opportunity since moving to the cruiserweight division. A win here would elevate him to new heights in the sport.
Billam-Smith: A Worthy Opponent
On the other side of the ring stands Chris Billam-Smith, the reigning WBO cruiserweight champion from the UK. Billam-Smith is fresh off his third successful title defense, where he avenged his only career loss by defeating Richard Riakporhe in a June rematch. Known for his durability and strategic boxing style, Billam-Smith will be a formidable opponent for Ramirez.
Despite his strong form, Billam-Smith faces a major challenge in Ramirez, whose combination of power, speed, and technical skills could pose serious problems for the British champion. Both fighters are eager to add another belt to their collection, making this unification bout one of the most anticipated events of the year. Billam-Smith, like Ramirez, is excited about the global attention this fight will bring, as it will be broadcast worldwide without a pay-per-view fee.
The Venue: Riyadh Season
The fight is being planned as part of the Riyadh Season, an entertainment festival held annually in Saudi Arabia. This partnership with Golden Boy Promotions, spearheaded by Oscar De La Hoya, aims to make this event accessible to millions by streaming it free of charge. His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia, confirmed that the event would be broadcast on multiple platforms, further increasing its visibility and appeal to fans across the globe.
This will be a historic event, not just because of the magnitude of the fight, but also due to its accessibility. In an era where major boxing events are often behind paywalls, the decision to make the Ramirez vs. Billam-Smith fight free to watch is a move aimed at making the sport more inclusive. Ramirez has expressed his enthusiasm for the event, recognizing the opportunity to showcase his talents to a broader audience, especially those who may not usually tune in due to financial barriers.
What’s Next for Ramirez?
For Gilberto Ramirez, this fight is about more than just unifying titles; it’s about cementing his legacy in the sport of boxing. With a win, he will not only hold two cruiserweight belts but also position himself as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world. A victory could also set him up for even bigger fights in the future, possibly with other top-tier opponents in the division or a move back to light heavyweight for a rematch with Bivol.
Ramirez’s team has been strategic in plotting his career moves, and this upcoming bout is the perfect opportunity to solidify his standing as one of the greats. With the fight being hosted in Saudi Arabia, it will also be an opportunity to expand his global fanbase.
Conclusion: A Career-Defining Moment
As the November date draws closer, anticipation continues to build for what could be a career-defining moment for both Gilberto Ramirez and Chris Billam-Smith. With two champions on a collision course, the cruiserweight division is set to crown its unified king, and for Ramirez, this fight could be his ticket to boxing immortality.
Fans of the sport can rejoice, as this fight will not only be a showcase of elite boxing talent but will also be free to watch—a rare gift in today’s pay-per-view-dominated sports world. The countdown to November 16 has officially begun, and all eyes are on Ramirez as he prepares to add another chapter to his storied career.
