A potential return to the cruiserweight division for Oleksandr Usyk could create major opportunities, and Chris Billam-Smith could well benefit from the move. As Usyk plots his course back to the cruiserweight ranks, the development has brought the possibility of a marquee showdown between Billam-Smith and Usyk directly into focus.
The idea of Billam-Smith sharing the ring with Usyk has generated immediate attention, though it hinges entirely on critical results for both competitors. When assessing whether a fight between Billam-Smith and Usyk could realistically take place, the terms were clearly outlined: "Maybe if he beats Benavidez and I beat Opetaia!"
Under this outlined scenario, both men must first emerge victorious from formidable tasks of their own. For Usyk, the challenge requires securing a victory over Benavidez. Meanwhile, Billam-Smith faces a pivotal test of his own, with the requirement that he must beat Opetaia in order to pave the way toward a future meeting with Usyk.
For now, the focus centers on how Usyk's plan to re-enter the cruiserweight division could aid Billam-Smith's fortunes. Should Usyk manage to beat Benavidez and Billam-Smith successfully overcome Opetaia, the prospective clash between Billam-Smith and Usyk would transition from a conditional possibility into a tangible cruiserweight reality.