 Cherifi, known as "Billy", began his pro career in 1989 and challenged for the WBC super middleweight title in 1997 against Robin Reid, losing split decision.After the loss, he dropped down in weight and took on WBC middleweight champion, Keith Holmes, winning a decision, although he was dropped in the ninth round.In 1999, he lost the belt in his first defense to Holmes in a rematch via seventh-round knockout.