What's Next For Jai Opetaia?

Jai Opetaia knocked out Claudio Squeo in round five to keep his Ring Magazine and IBF cruiserweight belts as we examine his next steps. 

Opetaia’s win took his undefeated record to 28-0, with 22 knockouts to his name. That was Opetaia’s third consecutive knockout, showing his power. Opetaia immediately started to close the distance as he launched a body attack. He also caught Squeo unaware with a right hook before Squeo countered. While Opetaia looked in control, he received a warning for punching while still holding Squeo’s head in the fourth. That delayed the inevitable, as the fight was over in the fifth. A right hook sent Squeo to the floor as the latter failed to get up. 

"We did what we had to do. I’m chasing this unification fight and it’s frustrating. Gilberto Ramirez – next fight, let’s get it on. I’m chasing the belts. The fight is easy to be made. Let’s do it," Opetaia said

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Instagram: zurdoramirez

Opetaia will likely look for a unification. He could target Zurdo Ramirez, who is the WBO and WBC Cruiserweight Champion. The latter defeated Chris Billam-Smith in his last fight to unify the division. That took his record to 47-1, with his only loss coming against Dmitry Bivol at 175 pounds. Ramirez will fight Yuniel Dorticos this month, as an Opetaia fight could play out.

Instagram: badoujack

The other alternative is to chase Badou Jack. The former is the WBC Cruiserweight Champion, but at the age of 41, Jack does not have much time left at the top level. He secured the vacant belt with a win against Ilunga Junior Makabu. Jack defended the belt for the first time with a majority decision win over Norair Mikaeljan. However, the decision received mass backlash, with the WBC ordering an immediate rematch.

Instagram: kevinlerena

Equally, Opetaia could consider a move up in weight. There is the chance to explore a belt at bridgerweight. The current WBC Champion is Kevin Lerena. While it is not the most prestigious belt, it allows Opetaia to secure another belt before his time in the sport is up, leaving him with plenty to ponder.

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