Does Zurdo Ramírez have what it takes to unify and become undisputed champion at 200lbs?

A view held by many is that Zurdo Ramirez is an overrated champion and no match for the IBF champion and power puncher Opetaia. With Zurdo set on pursuing a unification fight with him sometime this year, many have already voiced the opinion that Opetaia will maul Zurdo to bits in a slaughter fest. Heavy handed and having demolished all opposition so far, some have heralded Opetaia as the rightful king of the Cruiserweight division and Zurdo - a mere charlatan.

Roughly around the same height, Zurdo fought at super middleweight before unsuccessfully challenging for the 175 lbs crown against Bivol in a lopsided UD loss. The result, his first loss on a once undefeated record and loss of his credibility, branded a Golden Boy over padded bum who failed to rise to the occasion when required, and failing to avenge fellow countryman and all time great Canelo.

Fast forward two years, Zurdo now has two Cruiserweight titles under his belt in only three fights, albeit against mediocre opposition. His first fight as a Cruiser was at catchweight I believe against past his prime slugger Joe Smith Jr, winning by unanimous decision. His second fight with the WBA title up for stakes was against a highly inactive Arsen Goulamirian, fighting after a 2 year layoff. Not Zurdo’s fault by any means, he comfortably brawled and outboxed the outmatched Goulamirian, claiming his first championship belt at Cruiserweight and thereby making history for Mexico.

His most recent fight, only a month ago, was against Britain’s Chris Billiam Smith for the WBO belt, punishing him in a highly one sided fight, deftly countering with body shots and jabs, also pivoting around the ring with improved footwork. Though victorious, Zurdo’s flaws were evident with his lack of defense, standing in front of his opponent and taking shots and his lack of power. Despite now fighting at a weight more natural to him, Zurdo’s physique is not as shredded as other boxers in the division, but flabby, prompting the question as to whether he will be able to give and take punches against opponents with more brutalising power.

Against Opetaia these weaknesses may prove detrimental, but do you think Zurdo will be able to refine the skills needed to make his victory against Opetaia a reality?