Jai Opetaia sends clear message to David Benavidez

Jai Opetaia recently made a shock move to Zuffa Boxing in a co-promotional deal with Tasman Fighters. It’s a move that made the boxing world stand up and take notice that Zuffa are here to make noise.

Opetaia (29-0, 23 KOs) has produced dazzling performances throughout his career and shown plenty of heart when needed. Ahead of his expected Zuffa debut on March 8 against Brandon Glanton (21-3, 18 KOs) the Australian has spoken to Fight Hub TV about his undisputed aims, while sending a clear message to David Benavidez (31-0, 25 KOs).

Jai Opetaia signs with Zuffa Boxing

Zuffa Boxing was formed by TKO and Sela, and is led by Dana White, Turki Alalshikh, Sela’s managing director and CEO Dr. Rakan AlHarthy, and WWE president Nick Khan, who is also a TKO board member. The signing of Opetaia is a huge statement from Zuffa.

In the past, Dana White has not hidden his disdain for the governing bodies, but that stance appears to have softened in recent times, with Opetaia saying in a recent social media venue: 

“Pumped for the future.” 

“Exciting times. Let’s get these big fights over the line. Unification, undisputed, soon. Let’s go.”

Opetaia sends message to Benavidez

Talking to Fight Hub TV, the Australian was asked why the Zurdo Ramirez (48-1, 30 KOs) fight has yet to happen: “Ask him. I’m ready to fight. I’ve been chasing these big fights for quite a while. I wanna call myself undisputed. It is what it is. I’m ready when they are,” said Opetaia.

The Australian was then asked if he feels a fight with David Benavidez could happen: “If that fight comes, let’s do it. Respectfully, I’ve got a lot of time for him. I’ve seen some of his interviews. He holds himself well. He’s fighting for the right reasons, it’s good, and that’s a massive fight. So, f---, let’s get it on Benavidez!”

Jai Opetaia against Ramirez or Benavidez…sign us up!