Billam-Smith returns to cruiserweight top 10 after dominant win

Chris Billam-Smith has worked his way back into ESPN's cruiserweight top 10 after a dominant performance ended a year away from the ring.

The former WBO champion, who had not fought since losing his belt last March, returned with a lopsided win that convinced ESPN's panel to slot him back among the division's elite. ESPN reports that Billam-Smith controlled the action from the opening bell and never allowed his opponent back into the fight.

What Billam-Smith's ranking means for cruiserweight landscape

The Brit's reentry shakes up a cruiserweight division that had moved on without him during his extended absence. His previous stint in the top 10 came during his title reign, when he defended the WBO strap twice before dropping a decision to Gilberto Ramirez in Riyadh.

Billam-Smith told ESPN after the fight that the layoff had been necessary to reset mentally and physically following the loss. Now back in the rankings, he positions himself as a threat to the current titleholders and top contenders looking to unify belts in 2025.

ESPN's updated cruiserweight rankings reflect movement across multiple spots, with Billam-Smith's inclusion pushing other contenders down a notch. His next fight date has not been announced, though he is expected to return before summer.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Boxing divisional rankings: Billam-Smith dominates in return, reenters cruiserweight top 10