David Nyika

In his second reign Opetaia makes the second defence of his IBF Cruiserweight title against Aussie-based New Zealander David Nyika. For the first time in two-and-a-half years the champion will fight back home in Australia and at the same venue where he won the title first time around against Mairis Briedis. Nyika steps in to replace Huseyin Cinkara who withdrew due to injury. Nyika is arguably a tougher opponent and brings a strong amateur pedigree having won two Commonwealth Gold medals and Olympic Bronze at the delayed Tokyo Games in 2021. But taking on Opetaia represents a huge step up in class from anyone he’s faced as a pro so far.