Zuffa Boxing announce multi-fight deal for former world champion

Zuffa Boxing continues to make its mark in the boxing world and have now announced the signing of the former WBO cruiserweight world champion Chris Billam-Smith to a multi-fight deal.

Billam-Smith (21-2, 13 KOs) enjoyed a great run of form, winning eleven fights in a row, including against Lawrence Okolie to win the WBO title, before being outpointed by Gilberto Ramirez. He scored impressive wins against Mateusz Masternak and Richard Riakporhe, and was last seen in action, beating Brandon Glanton on the undercard of Chris Eubank vs Conor Benn 1.

Chris Billam-Smith joins Zuffa Boxing

The 35-year-old enjoyed a memorable rise through the cruiserweight rankings before his defeat against Ramirez, a fight he lost, with scorecards of 116-112 x2 and 116-113.

Billam-Smith has been inactive in recent times, with his Boxxer deal set to expire at the end of 2025. The Bournemouth fighter was then ordered to take on Roman Fress in an eliminator, but following Fress’s team winning the purse bid, Billam-Smith made it clear he wasn’t interested.

This is a huge opportunity for the 35-year-old who has inked a multi-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing. His first fight under his new promotional banner is expected to be announced later this month and take place on Sky Sports, which reached a landmark deal with Zuffa Boxing in March. 

At the time of the Sky Sports deal being announced, Dana White said: “The UK has played such a pivotal role throughout the history of boxing. The fans there are some of the most loyal and passionate in the world. When you talk about boxing in that region, Sky Sports has always been the home for legendary boxing fights. There’s no bigger or better platform to showcase the best boxing in the UK.

“This is a massive milestone for Zuffa Boxing.”

Billam-Smith reacts to Zuffa Boxing deal

The Bournemouth fighter spoke to Sky Sports about signing with Zuffa Boxing:

“I’m really excited by this opportunity to work with Zuffa and Sky Sports,” said Billam-Smith.

“When two powerhouses in the world of entertainment come together like this, you know it will be a success, and you want to be a part of that.

“This 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.”