IBF Cruiserweight Champion, Jai Opetaia, is yet to make a defence of his title despite winning the belt almost a year ago – that’s set to change as he has now been ordered to take on Richard Riakporhe.
Opetaia outpointed Mairis Briedis in an upset victory last July, but sustained a broken jaw which kept him out of action for the rest of the year.
Then, after being linked to a fight with Chris Billam-Smith, the Aussie picked up another injury and underwent a surgery on his shoulder ahead of a proposed first title defence against former European champion and current mandatory challenger, Mateusz Masternak.
Masternak has pulled out of the clash, much to the disappointment of the champion, who will have been itching to get back into the ring.
Upon hearing the news, the undefeated southpaw, who was linked to a fight with Tyson Fury in recent weeks, took to social media to share his frustrations.
What a waste of time. He used to be a good fighter, now he’s a has-been. I would’ve retired him. If you don’t want the smoke, why waste the last few months talking shit? pic.twitter.com/J9d6IqhIMn
— Jai Opetaia (@jaiopetaia1) June 15, 2023
“What a waste of time. He used to be a good fighter, now he’s a has-been. I would’ve retired him. If you don’t want the smoke, why waste the last few months talking shit?”
However, all is not lost for the 27-year-old, as the IBF have now ordered a fight between he and Britain’s Richard Riakporhe, who has been clamouring for the opportunity to challenge for world honours.
The pair have been given thirty days to reach a deal and, if negotiations are not finalised by July 14, purse bids will be called and a 65-35 split will be given in Opetaia’s favour.
BOXXER and Ben Shalom will be keen to ensure that they win the purse bids to aid Riaporkhe with home advantage and seal a deal for the event to be shown on Sky Sports, with the challenger being one of the poster-boys for the promotional firm.