05-06-2025
Jai Opetaia squares up to defend his world title against Italian Claudio Squeo
Samoan Australian Cruiserweight world and ring magazine champion, Jai Opetaia defends his IBF world title on June 8 against undefeated Italian, Claudio Squeo on the Gold Coast.
"To be at the forefront of representing our people is special, especially to be up there on the world stage flying the flag," Opetaia said.
For his father and coach, Tapu Opetaia, it's an emotional experience. A third-generation boxer himself, he said he knew what it took to get to that level.
"He's worked hard for it and every time I sit there and cry, he goes, 'We're meant to be here, this is our spot we're meant to be here'," the older Opetaia said.
In 2012, at just 16 years old, Jai Opetaia was making history by representing Australia at the London Olympics.
Fast forward 10 years, he challenged Mairis Briedis for the world title and, with a twice-broken jaw, snatched the victory.
"We push our body through pain all the time you know? We've made a lot of sacrifices," he said.
Additional footage filmed by Sleeping Giants Films
Posted 11m ago 11 minutes ago Thu 5 Jun 2025 at 10:58pm
