On Saturday, November 16 at The Venue Riyadh Season in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) put in a dominant show in opposition to Chris Billam-Smith (20-2, 13 KOs) to win the WBO cruiserweight title and retain his WBA strap. Your complete card was streamed on DAZN and promoted by Golden Boy. The undercard noticed spectacular wins for Arnold Barboza Jr. and Oscar Collazo. Following the win for “Zurdo” consideration rapidly turned to what might be subsequent for the brand new unified champion and shortly after the battle he revealed what he desires to face IBF champion Jai Opetaia (26-0, 20 KOs).
Gilberto Ramirez Targets Unification Bout with Jai Opetaia
Ramirez Discusses Unification Ambitions Put up Billam-Smith Win
Billam-Smith began properly in Riyadh, however as quickly as Ramirez settled, his motion and punch quantity precipitated the Brit issues. His work up shut and at a distance was eye-catching and ensured he acquired a deserved unanimous choice victory to grow to be the unified champion. Regardless of the sensible efficiency from “Zurdo” he made it clear to Chris Mannix within the ring that he has lofty ambitions: “Yeah, in fact, I wish to unify with all of the champions and that’s the primary objective for me,” Ramirez mentioned when Opetaia’s identify was introduced up. “And I feel for all of the champions, too,” mentioned Ramirez.
A possible conflict between “Zurdo” and Opetaia could be fascinating. Opetaia is phenomenal at closing the space in opposition to his opposition, and Ramirez has showcased his slick footwork in his final two fights, alongside his spectacular potential to throw hurtful mixtures. Can Turki Alalshikh make this battle occur?
Cruiserweight Choices
Apart from the massive battle in opposition to Opetaia, there’s one different potential unification battle for each Ramirez and Opetaia, with Noel Mikaelian because the WBC champion. A chance to gather the WBC strap might be enticing for each the Mexican and Australian, earlier than dealing with one another in a possible undisputed cruiserweight bout, which might solely add to the intrigue.
