Content overview: “Chris Billam-Smith Targets Jai Opetaia, But Open to Deontay Wilder Alternative”. Chris Billam-Smith is keeping his options open in the cruiserweight division, with a potential fight against Jai Opetaia still his primary target. However, the former WBO champion made it clear that if Opetaia is unavailable, he is willing to pivot to other high-profile opponents, including former heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder. Billam-Smith, who lost his title to Gilberto Ramirez in November 2024, is eager to return to the ring and re-establish himself among the elite at 200 pounds.
Opetaia, the IBF champion, is widely regarded as the division's top fighter, but scheduling and promotional hurdles have delayed a possible matchup. Billam-Smith's willingness to face Wilder, who has never competed at cruiserweight, underscores his ambition to secure marquee fights that capture fan interest and boost his standing. The full version stays on the original page, which this listing opens directly.