Deontay Wilder reportedly agrees to fight Jai Opetaia on Fury-Joshua undercard

Deontay Wilder has reportedly agreed to a deal to compete on the undercard of the Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua event. According to reports from Boxing Kingdom and boxing journalist Dan Rafael, the fight is expected to take place on December 11 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

The Matchup

Wilder, a 41-year-old former two-time world champion, is reportedly set to face Jai Opetaia. Opetaia is the current Ring Magazine, WBA Regular, and Zuffa Boxing Cruiserweight world champion. While Opetaia is an undefeated fighter with 24 knockouts from 31 wins, the bout is expected to take place at heavyweight. Opetaia has fought at heavyweight previously, though he has not fought at that weight since 2017. The Australian champion is moving up from 200lbs for the contest.

Background on Deontay Wilder

Wilder is a former WBC champion and a knockout specialist. His most recent appearance in the ring was in April, when he won a split decision victory over veteran Derek Chisora in a 12-round contest that included two knockdowns. Following that performance, Wilder was linked to several potential opponents.

While negotiations for a clash with Oleksandr Usyk were previously discussed, those talks were scrapped. Wilder has also been linked to Murat Gassiev, the current WBA ‘regular’ heavyweight title holder. Additionally, a cruiserweight showdown between Wilder and David Benavidez has been verbally agreed for May 2027.

Potential Implications

For Wilder, a victory over Opetaia could potentially place him back in the conversation to compete for a heavyweight world title. For Opetaia, a win over a high-profile opponent could increase his marketability and potentially put him on the radar of Oleksandr Usyk. The Ukrainian champion has recently expressed intentions to move back down to the cruiserweight division, highlighting David Benavidez as a potential opponent.

The Fury vs. Joshua Event

The December 11 undercard is part of the larger Tyson Fury vs. Anthony Joshua event. The WBA ‘super’ variant is set to be on the line during the main event, and the winner will become a three-time world champion.

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Sources

• boxingnewsonline.net: Deontay Wilder agrees to fight KO artist former champion on Fury vs Joshua card | Boxing News
• bloodyelbow.com: Deal reached for Deontay Wilder to compete on Fury vs. Joshua undercard against current world champion

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.