Interim cruiserweight title bout tipped for Eubank vs Benn II
The WBO has moved decisively in its cruiserweight division, ordering Chris Billam-Smith to meet Roman Fress in an interim title bout. At the same time, unified champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez recuperates from shoulder surgery.
In a public statement, WBO President Gustavo Olivieri spelled out the decision:
“Re: WBO Cruiserweight Division – In light of Zurdo Ramírez’s injury and recovery period, the WBO ordered an Interim title bout between Chris Billam-Smith vs Roman Fress to maintain activity in the division. With the parties unable to reach terms, purse bid proceedings will be ordered.”
Ramírez underwent successful shoulder surgery earlier this summer, following his June 28 unanimous decision over Yuniel Dorticos, to address a persistent injury that had troubled him for months.
Ramirez Injury
The Mexican champion acknowledged the severity of the issue:
“I’ve been dealing with this injury since my last fight, and pushing through it just isn’t the smart move — for my health or my career.”
He added, “Surgery isn’t something any fighter wants to hear, but this is the right call to make sure I heal properly and come back at 100%. I’ll be out of the ring healing until my medical team clears me. I’ll be back stronger, sharper, and hungrier than ever!”
Eubank vs Benn II
Why the interim fight matters — and when it might land
The WBO’s move keeps the cruiserweight division active during Ramírez’s layoff. As Olivieri noted, the interim battle is needed while Ramírez recovers — and since the two sides (Billam-Smith and Fress) weren’t able to agree on terms, the WBO will trigger a purse bid.
One likely destination for this bout is the massive Eubank vs. Benn 2 undercard at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 15 — if promoters can align schedules and finances.
Billam-Smith, once the WBO champion before Ramírez dethroned him, is entering this as the top contender. Fress, a rising European puncher with just one loss, now gets a shot at gold on a major stage.
The winner won’t just carry the “interim” label — he positions himself to challenge Ramírez once he’s healthy and fully active again, potentially forcing the champion to face him rather than ducking.
If Ramirez decides to move up to bridgerweight or even heavyweight, as he previously told World Boxing News in an exclusive interview, the winner could even be elevated to full titleholder.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.
