Usyk, Opetaia, or Mikaelian? Zurdo Discusses His Next Opponent

Mexican WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez (47-1, 30 KOs) has shared his thoughts on potential future opponents.

Ramirez reiterated his interest in facing Oleksandr Usyk (22-0, 14 KOs), the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBO heavyweight champion.

"If he wants it, I’m more than ready and happy to fight him. He’s one of my idols, and I want to face him. What he’s done in boxing is amazing.

Everyone saw that I’m a strong guy and making progress. I want to be a heavyweight champion too. Look at Usyk – what he’s achieved. He’s no bigger than me, and I think I can do the same," Ramirez told Sky Sports.

However, more likely opponents for Zurdo’s next fight include IBF champion Jai Opetaia (26-0, 20 KOs) or WBC titleholder Noel Mikaelian (27-2, 12 KOs). Ramirez is confident he can unify the titles and become the undisputed champion in the cruiserweight division.

"I believe I have the best chances of beating anyone in this category. Everyone saw what we did with Billam-Smith in the ring, and now people are talking about me.

This is the second time I’ve beaten a champion in this division, and now people see me as a real contender. I know I’m the best in the cruiserweight division," Ramirez declared.

To recap, on November 16, Gilberto Ramirez defeated Chris Billam-Smith via unanimous decision to become a unified world champion in the cruiserweight division.