Chris Billam-Smith vs. Gilberto Ramirez unification bout expected for November 16

Mexico’s Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (46-1, 30 KOs) is expected to fight Chris Billam-Smith (20-1, 13 KOs) in a unification bout on November 16.

According to “The Ring” teams are in advanced talks for a WBO and WBA cruiserweight unification fight. If they reach deal the fight will happen in the first show of Golden Boy Promotion in Riyadh Season.

Billam-Smith is WBO champion and Ramirez holds WBA title.

One hurdle cleared to help move along the matchup was the matter of Ramirez’s mandatory title defense. Former two-time titleholder Yuniel Dorticos (27-2, 25 KOs) is the No. 1-ranked WBA contender and ordered to enter talks with Ramirez’s team. The two sides failed to reach a deal but were able to find common ground and avoid a purse bid hearing.

Billam-Smith confirmed for “Sky Sports” that negotiations are happening for Ramirez fight.