Unifications are turning out to be the flavor of 2024. After many compelling and blockbuster championship fights, another one is lined up to sweep the fans off their feet and give them another memorable evening. But this time, it’s the cruiserweight that is in focus as Gilberto Ramirez and Chris Billam-Smith take one step closer to the undisputed glory. But who will be left standing in the battle of titans and champions?

The fans will have their answer, as the two fighters will put their titles on the line in a unification bout at The Venue in Riyadh on Saturday, November 16 on the Golden Boy Promotions-Riyadh Season card. The fight, a clash of two hard-hitting champions, offers fans a high-paced, tactical matchup, which will keep the hardcore fans engaged. Before that happens, let’s have a look at how the two boxers stack up.

Gilberto Ramirez vs. Chris Billam-Smith: Tale of Tape

WBA cruiserweight champion Ramirez, 33, is your typical Mexican fighter, who likes to trade, push forward, and show heart. This has helped him wreak havoc at the 200-pound division. He also boasted an almost perfect record until he crossed paths with Dmitry Bivol and succumbed to his first loss and only loss. Despite the loss, he continued his rapid ascent and became a two-division world champion when he defeated Arsen Goulamirian earlier this March and clinched the WBA gold. Therefore, the Mazatlán native now holds a record of 46-1 with 30 KOs.

If you look at his KO ratio of 65.22%, you will realize he packs power behind those punches. In addition, he has the dimensions to impose his will and dictate the fight’s pace and distance. Standing tall at 6’2½” (189 cm), Ramirez tends to overwhelm fighters with his forward pressure rather than his power. His reach of 75″ (191 cm) also comes to his aid, as he can unleash powerful blows from mid-range. But nothing much will separate him and Billam-Smith on paper when it comes to measurements.

The British champion has a height of 6’3″ (191 cm) and boasts of an identical reach of 75″ (191 cm) like Ramirez. However, Billam-Smith, 34, is the older of the two and has fewer fights under his belt. But he has carved out a reputation as a heavy hitter who likes to break down his opponents throughout 12 rounds. His durability allows him to employ such a tactic, as he takes his rivals heads on, and it has also ensured he amasses an impressive record of 20-1 with 13 KOs.

The sole loss in his career came against Richard Riakporhe in a closely contested fight in 2019, a revenge that he would take in June of this year and defend his WBO title for a second time. Besides the Epsom native’s power, he can fight at close quarters, which makes him a deadly fighter. His KO ratio of 65% also points to the same. But will it be enough?

Prediction: Who wins it?

Ramirez is known for his high-output punching and his constant pressure. But what separates him from the rest is his resume and his experience. ‘Zurdo’ has faced the likes of Bivol and Jesse Hart, and that surely adds to his veteran experience and resilience. It has enhanced his ability to adapt. His relentless work rate and constant pressure might put Billam-Smith on the back foot. It’s an area where he is not so comfortable.

But Billam-Smith has a high guard and strong in-fighting game, which might nullify Ramirez’s volume punching. Not to mention, he could close the distance and make it into an inside affair. It would favor him because of his power and physicality. He has to maintain a high guard and be vigilant defensively; otherwise, he might get caught by Ramirez.

Meanwhile, Ramirez needs to use his jab, maintain distance, and keep the fight at mid-range, which is his strong suit. It’s a close fight to call, but Billam-Smith has a slight advantage given his size, power, and stamina. Contrarily, you shouldn’t be surprised if Ramirez leaves with both gold straps.

What do you make of this coming fight between Gilberto Ramirez and Chris Billam-Smith? Who do you think will leave the arena as a victor? Let us know in the comments below.