“They are going to let Jai combat for the titles and unify the division,” Francis informed Boxing King Media. “That’s precisely what he desires to do.”
The clarification lands awkwardly in opposition to how Zuffa has talked about its plans to date. Dana White has been clear about wanting Zuffa Boxing to face other than the prevailing belt system, but Opetaia’s deal leaves him firmly inside it.
Francis described that flexibility as a part of the deal, and Opetaia’s plans didn’t change when the contract was signed.
Opetaia already holds the Worldwide Boxing Federation title at cruiserweight, together with lineal recognition and the The Ring belt. His path to undisputed nonetheless runs by way of the remainder of the division, together with Gilberto Ramirez, who holds the WBA and WBO titles, and Noel Mikaelian, the present WBC champion.
The Australian stays unbeaten after 29 fights, with 23 wins inside the space. His signing with Zuffa was introduced earlier this month, making him one of many promotion’s first established champions forward of its debut occasion on January 23.
Francis additionally stated the transfer is not going to sluggish Opetaia’s exercise. Two fights are already in place, with not less than one announcement anticipated quickly.
For Zuffa, the association permits the promotion to showcase a reputable champion with out forcing a direct break from the belt system it has criticised. For Opetaia, it retains his profession transferring alongside the identical line he has adopted since successful his first world title. The belts are nonetheless the goal, and the division continues to be there to be handled.
