Jai Opetaia Backs Zuffa’s Push as New Boxing Power

IBF cruiserweight champion discusses new promotional partnership ahead of Brandon Glanton fight

Jai Opetaia says he believes Zuffa Boxing is building major fight cards as he prepares for his first appearance under the promotion. The IBF cruiserweight champion faces Brandon Glanton on March 8 in the main event of Zuffa’s latest boxing card.

The fight marks Opetaia’s first outing since joining Zuffa’s expanding boxing roster earlier this year. His comments in the interview suggested he is comfortable with the direction of the promotion as it prepares its early boxing events.

Opetaia pointed to the scale of events connected to the same group of promoters and investors involved in the project. He said the fight cards they have produced show the direction the promotion intends to take in boxing.

“Look at the track record. Look what they’re doing,” Opetaia said to talkSport Boxing. “If you’re not dealing with these people, you’re missing out.”

The 29-year-old Jai also spoke about the activity level he expects under the new arrangement. He said the schedule being discussed could allow him to fight three times each year, something that would represent a steady run of appearances for a reigning champion.

Long breaks between fights have been common for titleholders in several divisions. Champions can sometimes wait extended periods between bouts while negotiations and sanctioning requirements are completed. Opetaia said the possibility of staying active while appearing on major fight cards was an important factor.

“They’ve got a lot to prove in a short time,” Opetaia said. “Everyone’s got to pick their game up.”

Opetaia added that his role remains focused on preparation for the opponent in front of him, while the promotional side organizes the events and schedules.

The IBF cruiserweight champion Opetaia (29-0, 23 KOs) defends against Glanton (21-3, 18 KOs) on March 8 in the main event.