Where is Jai Opetaia from? Learn about boxer's nationality, ethnic background, and more

Jai Opetaia rose to fame after winning the IBF cruiserweight title in 2022 against Mairis Briedis. He later vacated the title due to a dispute with the IBF but reclaimed it by defeating Briedis again in Saudi Arabia earlier this year.

Opetaia achieved a bronze medal at the 2012 Youth World Championships as an amateur. He then represented Australia in the 2012 Olympics and the 2014 Commonwealth Games. He is currently ranked as the top cruiserweight globally by The Ring magazine, with an undefeated professional record of 25 victories, 19 of which were achieved through knockout.

As Opetaia prepares to defend his IBF cruiserweight title in October, his success continues to draw attention. Let’s take a closer look at his background and nationality.

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Where is Jai Opetaia from?

Jai Opetaia hails from Australia, born to a Samoan father and an Australian mother. Boxing runs deep in his family, with both sides having strong ties to the sport. His father’s side of the family has four generations of boxers, while his mother’s side is in its third generation, making him part of a rich boxing legacy.

He made history as the youngest Australian Olympic boxer, qualifying for the 2012 London Olympics at just 16 years old. Now at 29, Opetaia has established himself as a force in the cruiserweight division.

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Who is Jai Opetaia’s next opponent?

Jai Opetaia is set to defend his IBF cruiserweight title on Oct. 12, 2024, against British fighter Jack Massey at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This will be Opetaia’s first defense of his second reign as champion, and the fight is part of the undercard for the highly anticipated Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol bout.

The undercard, featuring fighters such as Chris Eubank Jr., Fabio Wardley, and Frazer Clarke, will be broadcast globally on DAZN.

Opetaia’s fight against Massey offers him another chance to extend his undefeated streak and solidify his dominance in the division.