Jack Massey Gears Up for World Title Shot Against Jai Opetaia

The cruiserweight contender Jack Massey is now eying the fight of his life when he goes up against the IBF champion Jai Opetaia next month. He currently boasts a record of 22 wins and 2 losses and will fight Opetaia, who has an unblemished record of 25 wins with 19 knockouts, on October 14 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This clash will be part of the supporting cast for the big undisputed Light-Heavyweight fight between Artur Beterbiev and Dmitri Bivol.

Photo byJohann Walter BantzonUnsplash

A New Challenge On The Horizon

Jai Opetaia, the current IBF world champ, will be on the opposite side of the ring trying to defend the title. The Australian boxer had in his mind a unification fight against WBO champion Chris Billam-Smith. However, that fight did not take place, and there was an open slot for Jack Massey to come in.

Looking at the performance of Jack Massey for the past year, it can be noted that he has been through lots of changes, both good and bad. He had expected to secure a fight after clinching a strong victory against Joseph Parker in a fight at heavyweight in January 2023, the following division was heavier than cruiserweight. However, this inactivity period of one year began, which left him on the sidelines.

Jack Massey's Strong Comeback Year

Jack Massey appeared in the ring in January this year, where he floored his opponent Steve Eloundou Ntere in the first round. He continued his impressive form and in June, he did exceptionally well against domestic contender Isaac Chamberlain to clinch the European and the Commonwealth belts. This year has also been transformative as far as boxing achievements are concerned for Massey, apart from his recent marriage.

Jai Opetaia gained an incredible reputation as the number one cruiserweight after claiming the IBF title that he clinched in July 2022 from Mairis Briedis. However, the belt was briefly held by another fighter due to a mandatory rematch clause. But Opetaia again won the belt in May this year when beating Briedis by a points margin in their rematch. This is why Jack Massey believes there are things they could exploit when Opetaia is in the ring. He notes Briedis' success in pushing Opetaia back during their rematch. He said that:

"I think that’s the thing as well, when you’re looking at a fight, finish strong. If you’re watching Opetaia, he slows down towards the end. That’s a massive factor that’s going to play out. Over 12 rounds, he might start fast, he’s really good for four or six, but it’s the back end of the fight."

Jack Massey’s strategic approach highlights the importance of endurance and experience in the championship rounds, offering a glimmer of hope for the British challenger as he prepares for this high-stakes fight. This is going to be an interesting fight between these two rivals, it is expected to be a tough fight between these two fighters.

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Article originally written by Muhammad Hashir