Gilberto Ramirez Calls for Jai Opetaia Unification After Dominant Display

On Saturday, November 16 at The Venue Riyadh Season in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) put in a dominant display against Chris Billam-Smith (20-2, 13 KOs) to win the WBO cruiserweight title and retain his WBA strap. The entire card was streamed on DAZN and promoted by Golden Boy. The undercard saw impressive wins for Arnold Barboza Jr. and Oscar Collazo. Following the win for “Zurdo” attention quickly turned to what could be next for the new unified champion and soon after the fight he revealed what he wants to face IBF champion Jai Opetaia (26-0, 20 KOs).

Gilberto Ramirez Targets Unification Bout with Jai Opetaia

Ramirez Discusses Unification Ambitions Post Billam-Smith Win

Billam-Smith started well in Riyadh, but as soon as Ramirez settled, his movement and punch volume caused the Brit problems. His work up close and at a distance was eye-catching and ensured he got a deserved unanimous decision victory to become the unified champion. Despite the brilliant performance from “Zurdo” he made it clear to Chris Mannix in the ring that he has lofty ambitions: “Yeah, of course, I want to unify with all the champions and that’s the main goal for me,” Ramirez said when Opetaia’s name was brought up. “And I think for all the champions, too,” said Ramirez.

A potential clash between “Zurdo” and Opetaia would be fascinating. Opetaia is exceptional at closing the distance against his opposition, and Ramirez has showcased his slick footwork in his last two fights, alongside his impressive ability to throw hurtful combinations. Can Turki Alalshikh make this fight happen?

Cruiserweight Options

Aside from the huge fight against Opetaia, there is one other possible unification fight for both Ramirez and Opetaia, with Noel Mikaelian as the WBC champion. An opportunity to collect the WBC strap could be attractive for both the Mexican and Australian, before facing each other in a potential undisputed cruiserweight bout, which would only add to the intrigue.