Wilder’s Manager Confirms Opetaia Fight on Fury-Joshua Card
Power Grind Boxing
The proposed fight between Deontay Wilder and cruiserweight Jai Opetaia has been discussed as part of the Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua card on December 11. Deontay Wilder’s manager Shelly Finkel confirmed that an offer for the fight had been accepted.
Wilder is the underdog in the matchup.
The two sides have reportedly agreed to the fight, although contracts have yet to be signed. Dana White acknowledged discussions over the contest between Deontay Wilder and Jai Opetaia.
Jai Opetaia is described as a former IBF champion who has been unbeaten and is operating at the peak of his powers.
Deontay Wilder is described as a former WBC heavyweight champion. His recent form includes a first-round win over Robert Helenius four years ago.
Wilder suffered defeats to Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang. Those losses were followed by an unconvincing split-decision victory over Derek Chisora.
In 2018, Deontay Wilder spoke openly about moving down to cruiserweight, believing he could take over the division while remaining heavyweight champion. He has already fought Tyson Fury three times.
Anthony Joshua fight. If Wilder loses badly to Opetaia, any remaining hope of another major heavyweight opportunity could, reportedly, disappear.
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