Cruiserweight star Chris Billum-Smith has signed with new promotion powerhouse Zuffa Boxing and will fight live on Sky Sports.
Billam-Smith has signed a multi-fight deal and his promotional debut is expected to be announced in the coming weeks.
The 35-year-old has a record of 21-2 (13 fights) and has a reputation as one of Britain’s most exciting fighters.
The former world champion lost his WBO title to Gilberto Ramirez but bounced back with a win over Zuffa fellow Brandon Glanton at London’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium last year.
Billam Smith’s Zuffa Boxing match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the UK and Ireland.
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Chris Billam-Smith admits potential fights with former foes Lawrence Okolie and Deontay Wilder could tempt him to move up from cruiserweight
“I’m really excited about this opportunity to work with Zuffa and Sky Sports,” Billam-Smith said.
“When you bring two powerhouses in the entertainment world together like this, you know it’s going to be successful and you want to be a part of it.
“This move is about proving I’m the best in the world. I can’t wait to get back in the ring and headline the show, broadcast live on Sky Sports.”
Billam-Smith has a huge fan base in his hometown of Bournemouth and headlined Vitality Stadium in 2023 when he defeated Lawrence Okolie to win the WBO cruiserweight title.
The win comes a year after he thrilled supporters with an all-action victory over Isaac Chamberlain to claim the European Championship and set up his chances for a world title shot with a stunning knockout win over Armend Hokshaj.
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Highlights of the WBA and WBO cruiserweight title fight between Gilberto Ramirez and Chris Billam-Smith
He also came out on top when he avenged an early career loss to Richard Riakpohe at Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park and defended his world title against the hard-punching Londoner.
Coached by one of Britain’s most successful coaches, Shane McGuigan, from the beginning of his career Billum Smith has won British, Commonwealth, European and World titles on his way to the top of the division, while routinely competing in front of sold-out crowds.
Determined to fight against the best, he previously told Sky Sports: “Right now I’m very motivated, very motivated, very excited.
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Chris Billam-Smith defends his WBO cruiserweight world title with a unanimous decision win over Richard Liakpore at Selhurst Park.
“I feel like I’m in a really good place, probably the best place I’ve felt in years before the Lawrence Okolie fight. Mentally, I’m thinking about where I’m at in life, but physically as well. I feel like I’m in a really good place, so I’m excited to get back in the ring.”
“I want the best fight out there, the kind of fight where I stand up to make a statement.”
