Jai Opetaia’s hopes of facing another cruiserweight world champion have been given fresh life.
The hard-hitting Australian retained his IBF title in typically brutal fashion, stopping mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara in the eighth round on December 6. The emphatic finish was quickly overshadowed by concern for Cinkara, who was taken to hospital after the bout amid reports of bleeding on the brain. A few days later, the 40-year-old was released while recovering from a fractured neck.
Opetaia’s second reign as IBF champion now stands at four successful defences, having overcome former titlist Mairis Briedis for a second time to win the title. Critics have argued that, beyond those two victories, the 30-year-old’s résumé lacks marquee names. Opetaia, however, has actively pursued unification bouts, chasing showdowns with former WBO champion Chris Billam-Smith and now-unified titleholder Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez.
Those hopes appeared to fade when it was revealed that David Benavidez will move up from light-heavyweight to challenge Ramirez next May, seemingly blocking Opetaia’s path to a two-belt clash.
Yet one world title remains available. The WBC belt now belongs to Noel Mikaelian, who reclaimed the title by defeating Badou Jack in Las Vegas last weekend. While the contest itself was forgettable, the new champion has made it clear he is willing to face Opetaia –– welcome news for the IBF holder.
Speaking to Boxing Scene, Mikaelian said:
“Great, let’s do it –– I’m ready to go. Just tell him to sign a big check.”
Opetaia will now hope his team can put together an offer strong enough to turn ambition into reality and finally secure the unification bout he craves.
