Jai Opetaia is the worst managed boxer in our era.

Jirov and Gomez were 190 pounders.

 

Usyk shouldn't be champion because he ducked Kabayel, but I agree with the rest of your post.

 

We agree exactly. I am frequently arguing against those that somehow still feel like everyone has to beat usyk to have a valid claim to be Champion.

 

Yes, back when the cruiserweight limit was 190 pounds only Holyfield managed to become world champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions. However, since the division's limit was raised to 200 pounds, only Haye, Usyk and Gassiev have held world titles in both categories. It would be interesting to see Opetaia in the heavyweight division, he could do well and even win a world title, but it is by no means a sure thing, contrary to what some people say.

 

Announced by who? Don King? King said the fight wouldn't happen. Wouldn't believe a word the man says about anything.

The WBC title probably won't be on the line but let's wait til someone more reliable than Don King tells us.

 

Mikaelian has been pictured with Opetaia with both the Zuffa and WBC belts present.

That the WBC's official website continues to ignore the Opertaia-Mikaelian fight like it isn't even happening is probably indication enough they intend to strip Mikaelian. Though ironically, he is still listed on their site as their champion.

I suspect Mikaelian hasn't broken the WBC's rules until he actually steps into the ring.

Will be interesting to see whether Mikaelian brings the WBC belt into the ring with him.

 

I bet Mikaelian will bring the belt into the ring so that the WBC can still take their cut, and then they will strip him.

 

LOL this thread back fired. It looks like he is about to get the biggest money fight available in his division next.

 

My money is Benevidez bails out or gets injured in training camp

 

Yes I am not sure he stepped into the ring just to bail out. I guess this will be the new narrative until David whips him.

 

After the post fight exchange between Opetaia and Benavidez (very good, the rivalry was palpable as was the great respect between the two) I'm more optimistic that this highly anticipated bout could become a reality in 2027. Benavidez vs Opetaia on Cinco de Mayo.

 

It's based on the people he has called out and avoid taking fight with ala Arthur and Bivol

 

I'm starting to think Benivdez beats Jai

Will be a good fight though

 

The move seems to have paid off for Jai

He was able to lure one of the belt holders into the ring and scored a TKO win and now it looks like he secured a big fight with David Benavidez

 

Beterbiev hasn't fought in 2025, and Bivol has only fought once this year, four months ago, after Benavidez moved up to cruiserweight. I blame their inactivity, injuries, and surgeries more than supposed ducking from either party.