Zuffa signs Chris Billam-Smith, Opetaia clash in play

Billam-Smith’s run to a world title still carries weight in this division. He upset Lawrence Okolie for the WBO belt in May 2023, then defended it against Mateusz Masternak and Richard Riakporhe before losing a unification to Gilberto Ramirez in 2024. That loss, followed by contract issues with Boxxer, slowed his activity and left him waiting on the right move.

“This is a no-brainer,” Billam-Smith said. “They’re entertainment powerhouses and that’s what I’m about: entertaining. The move is about proving I am the best in the world. I can’t wait to get back in the ring, headlining shows live on Sky Sports.”

The timing ties directly to Zuffa’s early moves at cruiserweight. The promotion crowned its first belt holder in March, when Jai Opetaia outpointed Glanton over 12 rounds. Opetaia has long been a name Billam-Smith has chased, and he has already made his view clear.

“I don’t think he’s ever looked invincible,” Billam-Smith said earlier this year. “He’s very, very good, but no one’s invincible.”

There were other routes on the table. The WBO had ordered him toward an eliminator with Roman Fress, but interest cooled after the purse bid came in at $150,000. His Boxxer deal expired at the end of 2025, and the inactivity that followed now looks like a waiting period for a bigger platform.

Zuffa has been building its roster with a mix of prospects and known names, and Billam-Smith fits as a ready-made opponent for meaningful fights right away. His debut under the new banner is expected to be announced soon.

He joins at the right time, but he also joins needing to move quickly.