Gold Coast, Australia – The scheduled IBF and Ring Magazine cruiserweight title defence by Jai Opetaia on 8 January 2025, against Huseyin Cinkara will no longer proceed as planned according to a post by Tasman Fighters on Facebook. Cinkara has withdrawn due to an ankle injury, with doctors confirming ligament damage that will sideline him for approximately three months.
Despite this change, the event at the Gold Coast Convention Centre will go ahead, with Opetaia remaining the featured fighter. Promoters Tasman Fighters, Matchroom, and Goldstar Promotions are actively seeking a replacement opponent. Negotiations are underway with several top-ranked fighters, and an announcement is expected by Monday.
Michael Francis, promoter for Tasman Fighters, confirmed that efforts are in progress to maintain the high-profile nature of the event. “We’re working closely with the IBF and other potential opponents to finalize Jai’s next challenger,” Francis stated.
Opetaia, who defended his titles earlier this year with a knockout victory over Jordan Thompson, is prepared to adapt to the situation. “I’ll be ready for whoever steps into the ring,” Opetaia said.
“My goal is to prove I’m the best.”
The event will be broadcast globally on DAZN and will be available at pubs and clubs across Australia and New Zealand via Entain Venues. Tasman Fighters will provide updates on the opponent and fight details in the coming days. Fans are encouraged to follow developments ahead of what promises to be an exciting event.
