Australia’s Jai Opetaia will defend his IBF cruiserweight world title on home soil after a late deal secured mandatory challenger Huseyin “The Hurricane” Cinkara for his next fight. The agreement avoided purse bids, with Cinkara set to travel Down Under for his first world title opportunity.
Opetaia, widely regarded as the world’s top cruiserweight, is determined to make a statement in front of his home fans. “Cinkara is unbeaten and dangerous, but this is my time,” Opetaia said. “I’ve been calling for unifications, but first I have to take care of business here. The titles are staying in Australia.”
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Cinkara enters as a live threat, bringing both power and momentum into the biggest fight of his career. For Opetaia, the bout is another step in solidifying his position as the standout of the division, while keeping his pursuit of unifications alive.
Michael Francis of Tasman Fighters, who struck the deal with Cinkara’s promoter Ahmet Öner just hours before purse bids, praised the outcome.* “Jai Opetaia is the best boxer in Australia and the number one cruiserweight in the world. His star keeps rising, and bringing this fight here shows just how big he’s become. Fans can expect fireworks.”*
Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn added: “Facing an undefeated challenger like Cinkara shows what kind of champion Jai is - always ready for the toughest tests. This is a fight the world will be watching.”
Image Credit: The Ring