Gilberto Ramírez vs. Chris Billam-Smith: Press Conference Quotes and Fight Prediction
A chance to unify awaits Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (46-1, 30 KOs) and Chris Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs).
Their bout headlines a card promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and BOXXER at The Venue in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Boxing fans around the world can catch the action live on DAZN and TrillerTV. Ramírez will be putting his WBA cruiserweight title on the line. Billam-Smith will have his WBO belt at stake.
The Ramírez vs. Billam-Smith card (also called Latino Night) is part of Riyadh Season, a state-funded entertainment and sports festival. The Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority is responsible for its organization.
Both men spoke at a press conference ahead of their unification bout. Below is some of what they said.
Gilberto Ramírez vs. Chris Billam-Smith Press Conference Quotes
Gilberto Ramírez
“I’m ready,” said Ramírez. “I’m really excited for this Saturday night and I think I will represent ‘Noche Latina’ very well. [Switches to Spanish]¡Viva México! I’m going to represent México well this Saturday. I am going to take the title home again. I’m ready. [Switches back to English] I’m ready for whatever he [Billam-Smith] brings to the table.”
Chris Billam-Smith
“It’s an honor to be here on this stage,” said Billam-Smith. “These are the fights and shows now that are taking over the global audience and it’s amazing to be headlining this night. The last time out against Richard Riakporhe, it was meant to be his night at Selhurst Park just like this night is supposed to be Zurdo’s. Unfortunately I’m here to spoil the party again and I’ll be doing that Saturday night.”
Read More: Chris Billam-Smith Eyes Undisputed Glory if He Defeats Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez
Fight Prediction
Between the two, Billam-Smith is the one who has spent more time at cruiserweight, something which could work in his favour. In his last fight, Ramírez showed that not only can he handle career cruiserweights, but he can also defeat them comfortably. However, Billam-Smith should prove to be a greater challenge and it is unlikely that he will get dropped or even particularly hurt by “Zurdo.” This should allow the Bournemouth native to win a very close unanimous decision.
Full Press Conference
For the press conference in its entirety, click here or the play button below. Video courtesy of Golden Boy Promotions.
Currently writing out of Toronto, Canada, Saadeq first became a boxing fan while living in Doha, Qatar. Looking to become more involved in the sport, he began writing about boxing and has had work published in outlets such as Seconds Out and Boxing Social. He looks forward to continue covering boxing on Big Fight Weekend.
