AUSTRALIA’S IBF cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia will defend his crown at home after a last-minute agreement was reached. It had been expected that Opetaia might have to travel to face mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara, but a deal was agreed, preventing the bout from going to purse bids.
Now, Huseyin “The Hurricane” Cinkara, 23-0 (19 KOs), will pack his bags and bring the thunder Down Under for his big chance against world champion Opetaia, 28-0 (22 KOs), with the final details on date, venue, and broadcast to be announced shortly.
“I’m already deep in preparation and ready to put on another exciting show. Cinkara is unbeaten and dangerous, but this is my time,” said Opetaia.
“I’ve been calling for unifications, but the other champions don’t seem to want it. First, I have to take care of Cinkara—and then we keep chasing those belts. One thing’s for sure: the titles are staying in Australia.”
Director of Tasman Fighters, Michael Francis, who finalised the deal with Cinkara’s promoter Ahmet Öner just hours before the bout was due to go to purse bid, added: “Jai Opetaia is the best boxer in Australia and the number one cruiserweight in the world. His star keeps rising, and bringing this fight to Australia shows just how big he’s become. Fans can expect fireworks.”
Matchroom Boxing head honcho Eddie Hearn stated, “Jai Opetaia has proven himself as an elite world champion and a global star. Facing an undefeated challenger like Cinkara shows the kind of fighter he is—always ready to take on the biggest threats. This is a fight the world will be watching.”
