Chris Billam-Smith’s Comeback
Former WBO world cruiserweight champion Chris Billam-Smith is eager to make a comeback in boxing, expressing that a brief hiatus from the sport has rekindled his passion. The 35-year-old fighter, who faced Gilberto Ramirez in a world title unification match last year, is now looking forward to stepping back into the ring in early 2024. Billam-Smith, who is affectionately known as ‘The Gentleman’, has only competed once since that defeat, securing a points victory against Brandon Glanton in April at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Optimism After Setbacks
Despite the setback against Ramirez in Saudi Arabia—his second professional loss—Billam-Smith remains optimistic and intent on capturing another world title. He noted that while encounters with unbeaten IBF champion Jai Opetaia and WBO/WBA titleholder Ramirez may not be immediate, they are certainly on his radar.
“I’m thrilled about the next chapter of my boxing career because I know my potential,” Billam-Smith stated in an interview with BBC Sport. “My ranking is strong, and if an opportunity arises for a world title or the Opetaia matchup, I can consider rematches with Ramirez and focus on the WBC belt. My ambition to become the undisputed cruiserweight champion remains unchanged.”
Path to Glory
In his path to glory, Billam-Smith accumulated an impressive record of 21 victories and wore multiple titles, including the British, Commonwealth, and European championships before securing the world title in his hometown of Bournemouth in 2023. Reflecting on his bout with Ramirez, which ended in a tough 12-round battle, he acknowledged the lessons learned despite the loss.
“In retrospect, I’m grateful for that experience. I may not have emerged victorious, but the insights gained are invaluable as I prepare for my next challenges,” he remarked.
Balancing Life and Boxing
Billam-Smith emphasized the importance of honing his skills and recognizing the need to adapt when facing elite opponents like Ramirez and Opetaia. Furthermore, he candidly shared the difficulty of finding the right balance between his boxing career and family life, as he and his wife Mia are parents to two young boys. Discussing the pressures and emotional toll of his previous training camps, he indicated that a period of reflection was necessary for his mental well-being.
“Taking time off has recharged my motivation,” he explained. “Before the Glanton fight, I was struggling with my enjoyment of the sport, likely due to absence from home and the loss to Zurdo. Spending quality time with my family since my second son was born has helped me refocus and prepare for my goal of becoming the undisputed champion. I feel ready to tackle what’s next in my boxing journey.”
Looking Ahead
As he gears up for future fights, Billam-Smith sees every match as crucial to achieving his ambitions, spotlighting the importance of pursuing the WBC title diligently.
