The boxing world will soon witness a title fight in the cruiserweight division. Jai Opetaia, the Australian professional boxer is no longer the IBF cruiserweight world title holder. The undefeated boxer became world champion back in 2022 after he defeated Mairis Briedis via a unanimous decision.
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Moreover, he last fought against Ellis Zorro in the Kingdom of Saudi and got a stoppage in an impressive victory. However, before the fight against Zorro, he had to relinquish his belts. How and why did this happen? And who will now compete for the vacant IBF Cruiserweight Title? Let’s find out.
Gilberto Ramirez vs Mairis Briedis: The saga behind the IBF cruiserweight title
Briedis and Ramirez are both top contenders, according to IBF rankings. They are ranked number 3 and 4 respectively. Ramirez has more wins under his belt and one less defeat when compared to former IBF Cruserweight champion Breidis. Breidis is a three-time cruiserweight champion having held the WBC and IBF cruiserweight titles before. And Ramirez is the former WBO Supermiddleweight champion and made his debut in the cruiserweight division last year against Joe Smith Junior. Apart from their boxing record, their styles will make it a great contest.
On the other hand, Opetaia lost his world title and he is not pleased with it at all!
Jai Opetaia expresses dissatisfaction over losing the IBF title
At the outset, Opetaia was not too pleased to have his title eventually vacated. According to the Boxing scene, he revealed that the entire saga has been quite “frustrating,” and urged the authorities to be compassionate towards him. He stated, “It feels like they’re making decisions without knowing how it affects the fighter’s life.” He added, “Holding me back from providing for my family.”