Chris Billam-Smith signs with Zuffa Boxing, could be next for Opetaia

TL;DR

Chris Billam-Smith has signed with Zuffa Boxing, potentially setting up a fight against Jai Opetaia, the current cruiserweight champion. This matchup could enhance the legitimacy of the newly established Zuffa cruiserweight title.

LONDON, ENGLAND - APRIL 26: Chris Billam-Smith celebrates after victory against Brandon Glanton in the Cruiserweight fight between Chris Billam-Smith and Brandon Glanton as part of the Fatal Fury - Fight Night at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on April 26, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Zuffa Boxing may have secured their first really notable fight, signing former cruiserweight titleholder Chris Billam-Smith, which could potentially set up a bout with the top man in the division, Jai Opetaia.

With Zuffa just beginning to build its roster, the cards to date from the TKO venture have been solid but second- or third-tier sort of events, including Opetaia defeating fringe contender Brandon Glanton, an event more memorable for the resulting Zuffa vs IBF drama, and Opetaia being stripped of his IBF title, but he does now have the fledgling Zuffa cruiserweight championship.

The 35-year-old Billam-Smith (21-2, 13 KO) remains a top contender in the division, and a fight between Opetaia and Billam-Smith could help to add a little legitimacy to that belt in the eyes of many fans.

“This move is about proving I am the best in the world. I can’t wait to get back in the ring, headlining shows,” Billam-Smith told Sky Sports. “I want the best fights out there. The ones that are going to get me up for making a statement.”

Billam-Smith is said to have signed a “multi-fight” contract with Zuffa.

The Bournemouth man last fought in April 2025, also beating Brandon Glanton by decision, which followed his losing the WBO title to Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez in a good, tough fight in November 2024 in Riyadh.

Billam-Smith, a fan favorite in the UK and someone who has truly earned his “Gentleman” nickname, as well as his reputation for action-packed fights, began a breakout run in 2021 when he beat Tommy McCarthy to win the European, British, and Commonwealth titles. He took the WBO title from Lawrence Okolie in 2023, and had a really strong run in the division with wins over Mateusz Masternak and Richard Riakporhe in WBO title defenses, before losing to Ramirez.

Opetaia would definitely be the favorite against Billam-Smith, but CBS has always had a knack for hanging tough in fights, with a good chin and a great gas tank.

We’ll see if Billam-Smith, having been inactive for a year, will take something of a rust-shaker or tune-up, or if Zuffa plan to go straight into an Opetaia fight this summer.

Q&A

What does Chris Billam-Smith's signing with Zuffa Boxing mean for his career?

Chris Billam-Smith's signing with Zuffa Boxing could elevate his profile and provide opportunities for high-stakes fights, particularly against top competitors like Jai Opetaia.

Who is Jai Opetaia and why is he significant in the cruiserweight division?

Jai Opetaia is the current cruiserweight champion and is significant for his recent victories and the controversy surrounding his IBF title status, which adds intrigue to potential matchups.

When could Chris Billam-Smith fight Jai Opetaia?

While no official date has been set, discussions around a fight between Chris Billam-Smith and Jai Opetaia are expected to develop as Zuffa Boxing builds its roster and schedules future events.