Jai Opetaia KO4 David Nyika... Fighting in his native Australia, Jai Opetaia retained his IBF cruiserweight championship by knocking out David Nyika of New Zealand. Making his first fight in Australia in two years, Opetaia was not troubled by the change in opponent three weeks before the opening bell. Opetaia increased his intensity towards the end of round three. A right hand sent Nyika on to the canvas, but the New Zealand fighter managed to beat the count. But Opetaia continued to land and eventually it proved too much for Nyika's resistance who was knocked out with a big left hand. Nyika was down on the canvas for several minutes but eventually stood up under his own power.

 

Boxing fans hope the next assignment for Opetaia will be a unification clash with WBA / WBO cruiserweight titleholder Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez.  Opetaia was lauded on social media by former cruiserweight champion Mairis Briedis, whom Opetaia has defeated twice. Briedis tweeted, "Congratulations to Jai Opetaia on a stunning victory! A brilliant performance that showcases his world-class talent."