Opetaia is better, although he shouldn’t get dragged into something, he likes a fight, but he has the tools to outbox him and maybe stop him. He outjabs him, lands combinations head and body and basically takes him apart IMO. Maybe Jirov could force him to work harder than he wants and have some success down the stretch at some point though.
If Opetaia didn't get dragged into war with Jirov,I like that unanimous decision for him. Either way if he gets dragged I'm not surprised if Jirov prevails.
Opetaia slightly for me. I think he is a little quicker. But both guys are quite open to being hit, both are southpaws, so anything could happen. Jai in a close fight for me but Jirov win wouldn't shock me.
Jirov's career ended with a whimper but I think people forget about him pre-Toney (the years off your career war). Jirov used to just pummel and breakdown guys. I think Opetaia is elite and the real deal in this new class but if he doesn't get rid of Jirov (and he could) he may be on the wrong side of a decision loss. I don't think he wins on points.
This is a pretty reasonable take. The one thing that gives me pause about Jirov even going back to his amateur days was he could be hurt and often was in fights. He was almost like a larger Fernando Vargas in that regard. Tons of heart but a bit chinny. I could see him outworking Jai but Jai's power could be a big problem for Jirov. Jai ate some huge shots against Breidis and never stopped coming after him. I think he could take Jirov's punches.
I believe this as well, Jirov completely disregarded defense in favor of raining punches. And that left hand of Opetaia is a real weapon. I think he's also a better mover. Yeah I don't think Jirov would dent him, I think he'd pile up rounds though, and someone very active, it's hard to counter and win rounds over unless you land eye catching, aesthetically beautiful shots...............Toney vs Jirov for example:
