Day of Reckoning is available to watch from Riyadh in Saudi Arabia LIVE on DAZN & TNT Sports Box Office for £19.99 in the UK
Jai Opetaia, the self-proclaimed ‘Emperor of the Cruiserweights’, is strutting his stuff, declaring all paths lead straight to him. He’s gearing up to show the world this Saturday, in a spectacular fashion, that he’s still the big cheese in the division, even though he had to kiss goodbye to his IBF World Title.
This Aussie is ticking down the days until his ‘Day of Reckoning’ with Ellis Zorro in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – a showdown that’s going global on DAZN PPV.
The top-dog, the reigning Ring Magazine World Champion, is entering the ring sans IBF crown, having to ditch it earlier today.
With his would-be rival Mairis Briedis out nursing an injury, a gang of boxing promoters – Matchroom, Tasman Fighters, Queensberry, and Wasserman Boxing – pleaded with the IBF for a special pass for Opetaia to defend his title against Britain’s Zorro this weekend.
Sadly, the IBF played hardball and didn’t bite. Our Aussie hero, albeit grudgingly, had to let go of his championship belt. Now, he’s fired up more than a barbecue on Australia Day, promising to let his fists do the talking in the ring and show why he’s hailed as the top Cruiserweight on the planet.
“I’m itching to put on a killer show,” Opetaia chirped to Matchroom Boxing.
“I cannot wait to get in the ring. It’s all outside noise and it’s also just fuel on the fire. It makes me want to perform even better. The thing is all roads lead to me. I am the Ring magazine World Champion, the number one in the division. I am the king of the Cruiserweights.
“We’ve definitely earned our spot on this card, which is the biggest in boxing history. I can’t lie, it’s been a rough journey. It’s been a rollercoaster to get to where we are, but we are here.
“So, I reckon I’m the fire under my rivals’ seats. I’m grinding away, laser-focused on my path, not sweating over theirs.
“I’ve got Ellis Zorro in my head, expecting him to bring his A-game. He’s going to need to shift gears facing me. So, I’m revved up, prepped, and ready. I didn’t just stumble into this spot – I earned it. We just strut in and do our thing.
“We’re just warming up on this journey. We’ve got mountains more to conquer in this sport, waving the Aussie and Samoan flags high. I’m stoked to be part of this card and etch my name in the annals of boxing history.”
Ellis Zorro, you’ve escaped the clutches of York Hall, and here you are in the big leagues.
“Seems like the stars heard my mutterings. I was daydreaming about the Copper Box or The O2, but then – bam! – Saudi Arabia calls. Right now, I’m laser-focused on Saturday. Like I’ve been yapping all week, it’s a golden ticket for me, and I’m grabbing it with both mitts.”
And you’re just chilling there. What’s up with that?
“Beats me, honestly. It’s just my thing – cool as a cucumber. Probably got it from my life outside the ring, you know, the whole journey. I just stay frosty and keep my eyes on the prize. Nothing fancy, really.”
Got any insights on Jai Opetaia?
“He’s a tough cookie, no doubt. Wasn’t really in my crosshairs at first. I’m actually a fan – watched him tango with Briedis. The guy’s got slick moves, lightning-fast hands. He’s sturdy, can take a hit – top-contender stuff. He’s going to give me a run for my money, and weirdly, I’m kind of jazzed about that.”
What’s your ace in the hole for Saturday?
“It’s all about the burning desire to win. Sure, he’s got the same fire, but I trust my guts, my skills, and my unstoppable will.”
Then comes the ‘Day of Reckoning’ hot on the heels of the ‘Battle of the Baddest’, remember? That shindig on October 28 when Riyadh Season 2023 kicked off, and Tyson Fury showed Francis Ngannou who’s boss.
Riyadh Season’s fourth round, labeled “Big Time,” is a cornucopia of fun. It’s like a magnet, pulling folks from all over to Riyadh in the winter. Think of a smorgasbord of concerts, shows, and funky events. It’s like the who’s who of celebrities and big-name brands throwing a giant party.
Want in on the action? Grab your tickets through the WeBook app – here’s your magic portal: http://onelink.to/wbkapp
Jai Opetaia vs. Ellis Zorro Fight & Start Time
Event Date and Start Time:
- Date: Saturday, December 23
- Start Time: The event is scheduled to commence at 4 p.m. UK / 11 a.m. ET. The ringwalks for Jai Opetaia vs. Ellis Zorro are planned for approximately 6 p.m. UK / 1 p.m. ET. Keep in mind these timings might be subject to adjustments depending on the earlier bouts.
Streaming on DAZN PPV:
- The fight will be available live on DAZN PPV in various regions. For detailed streaming information, please visit DAZN’s website.
- In Argentina, Chile, and Colombia, viewers need to download and sign up through the DAZN app rather than via a web browser.
Venue:
- The bout between Jai Opetaia and Ellis Zorro is set to take place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Ticket Information:
- Ticket details for the event will be announced shortly.
Fighter Records and Bios:
Jai Opetaia (Australian): Born June 30, 1995, height 6′ 2″, reach 76″, with a total of 23 fights and an undefeated record of 23-0, including 18 KOs.
Ellis Zorro (British): Born October 5, 1992, specific height and reach not available, total of 17 fights with an unbeaten record of 17-0, including 7 KOs.
Full Fight Card
🥊 Anthony Joshua vs Otto Wallin
🥊 Deontay Wilder vs Joseph Parker
🥊 Daniel Dubois vs Jarrell Miller
🥊 Dmitry Bivol vs Lyndon Arthur
🥊 Jai Opetaia vs Ellis Zorro
🥊 Frank Sanchez vs Junior Fa
🥊 Filip Hrgovic vs Mark De Mori
🥊 Arslanbek Makhmudov vs Agit Kabayel