The IBF cruiserweight title fight between champion Jai Opetaia and Claudio Squeo, originally scheduled for Tuesday May 13, will now take place on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre. According to a press release, the delay is due to a "minor injury" sustained by Opetaia during training which "requires additional time for recovery."
Mick Francis, Opetaia's manager and Tasman Fighters promoter, stated: “Being the animal that Jai is in the ring, he takes no opponent lightly. He wants to be 100 per cent fit... Under doctor’s orders, we have pushed the fight back by three weeks to ensure Jai is in top form for the bout.”
The new date falls on a public holiday weekend in Australia, except for Queensland and Western Australia. Francis added, “With the Monday public holiday, we hope to see more interstate fans travelling to the Gold Coast to witness Jai live in action.”
There was no comment on the nature of Opetaia's injury, however.
The team behind the event did express gratitude for the support and flexibility of all involved. “We would like to thank the IBF, our broadcast partner DAZN, Presenting Partners Experience Gold Coast, Riyadh Season, co-promoters Matchroom and GoldStar, and our venues Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and Pacific Fair for their ongoing support and understanding in accommodating these new dates.”
