Jai Opetaia signs deal with Zuffa Boxing: Cruiserweight champ joins upstart promotion
Zuffa Boxing has a new world champion on its roster. The boxing promotion, founded in part by UFC Chairman and CEO Dana White, has signed IBF and The Ring cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia.
Zuffa Boxing and Opetaia announced the signing on Friday on Instagram.
“I’m with Zuffa Boxing now. I’m motivated for the future. It’s an exciting time,” Opetaia said. “Let’s line up these great fights. Unification. Soon uncontested.”
Opetaia (29-0, 23 KO) is one of the best professional boxers on the planet. The undefeated fighter is currently enjoying his second reign as IBF cruiserweight champion, having previously vacated the title, and has knocked out his last four opponents. He has two victories over former champion Mairis Briedis that helped him win the title.
Zuffa Boxing was officially founded last year by White and Turki Alalshikh. It is a joint venture co-owned by TKO Group Holdings, the parent company of the UFC and WWE.
Zuffa Boxing will be launched with 12 cards this year. Zuffa Boxing’s first official card, featuring Callum Walsh vs. Carlos Ocampo, is scheduled for January 23, the day before UFC 324, with both streaming exclusively on Paramount+. Last September, Zuffa Boxing held its first event headlined by an undisputed title fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford.
