Chris Billam-Smith Prepares for 2026 World Title Bid After Miami Sparring Success
Chris Billam-Smith, the former WBO cruiserweight titleholder from 2023 to 2024, is firmly setting his sights on reclaiming a world championship belt this year. The Bournemouth boxer is currently deep in training, with his team expressing confidence that he has what it takes to mount another serious challenge at the highest level of the sport.
Intense Sparring in Miami Proves Crucial for Comeback
In a recent development, Billam-Smith travelled to Miami's Cuban quarter before Christmas, joining forces with Adam Azim during the undercard of the Anthony Joshua versus Jake Paul fight. This sparring session provided a critical test for Billam-Smith, as he faced off against a world-class cruiserweight opponent in an environment known for its uncompromising intensity.
The six-round session was described as brutally heavy-handed, with no room for light touches or half-measures. Billam-Smith reportedly dominated the exchange, reaffirming his status as a top-tier cruiserweight and gaining valuable psychological momentum. This performance was particularly significant given that his opponent boasted over 300 amateur fights, making it a stern examination of his capabilities.
Learning from Past Setbacks and Looking to the Future
Despite a close loss in a unification bout against Gilberto Ramirez, Billam-Smith's prospects remain undimmed. The fight did little to tarnish his reputation, and he is now focused on maximising this phase of his career. His team believes he has approximately two more years at his peak, citing his physical strength and mental maturity as key assets.
From a psychological perspective, the Miami sparring was crucial, noted an insider. You want to demonstrate your substance and prove that your record stands up to scrutiny. Billam-Smith did exactly that, showing he is ready for the challenges ahead.
Targeting the Elite: Opetaia, Mikaelian, and Ramirez Rematch
While domestic contenders like Jack Massey may be eager for a fight, Billam-Smith's camp is looking beyond local rivalries. Their focus is squarely on the global elite, including IBF champion Jai Opetaia, WBC titleholder Noel Mikaelian, and a potential rematch with Gilberto Ramirez. This ambitious approach underscores their belief in Billam-Smith's ability to compete at the very top.
Billam-Smith's journey has been nothing short of inspirational. Often underestimated, he defied expectations to win British, European, and world titles, earning him the nickname the Cinderella Man of Bournemouth. His story serves as a beacon for aspiring boxers, proving that with dedication and skill, remarkable achievements are possible.
As 2026 unfolds, the boxing world watches with anticipation. Chris Billam-Smith has repeatedly shown that nothing is impossible, and with his team's support and his own unwavering determination, there is a strong sense that more success is on the horizon. The stage is set for what could be a thrilling chapter in his career.
