Undefeated Force Jai Opetaia Defends IBF Crown Against Veteran Dreamer Cinkara

Jai Opetaia puts his IBF cruiserweight world title on the line this December. The undefeated Australian champion faces mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara. The fight is scheduled for December 6, 2025. It will be held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Queensland, Australia.

This bout represents a classic boxing crossroads. Opetaia is the division’s recognized top champion. Cinkara is a 40-year-old contender finally getting his long-awaited shot.

Champion Opetaia Aims to Cement Dominant Status

Jai Opetaia’s record stands at a perfect 28 wins with 22 knockouts. He is widely viewed as the man to beat at cruiserweight. According to Ring Magazine, he is currently the division’s top champion.

His technical skill and formidable power have silenced doubters. Each defense solidifies his standing as an elite pound-for-pound talent. Other champions now see him as the ultimate target for unification.

Noel Mikaelian, another titleholder, confirmed this target status. He told Big Fight Weekend he is looking toward unification with either Gilberto Ramirez or Opetaia. This fight is Opetaia’s chance to remind everyone why he’s the benchmark.

Underdog Cinkara Relies on Faith and Experience

Huseyin Cinkara enters with an unblemished 23-0 record and 19 KOs. Yet, he is a massive 25-1 underdog with bookmakers. The Turkish-German fighter has never faced opposition at Opetaia’s level.

He is not intimidated by the champion’s home turf. “Fighting in Australia is not a disadvantage,” Cinkara told Ring Magazine. He believes a win on foreign soil would make his victory even greater.

His preparation was thorough, including sparring with former champions like Oleksandr Usyk. Cinkara credits his faith and life’s hardships for his mental strength. He views this fight as the culmination of a lifelong dream against all odds.

The Cruiserweight Division Awaits a Shakeup

The outcome of this fight has broader implications for the weight class. A win for Opetaia likely sets up a major unification bout in 2026. A victory for Cinkara would be a stunning upset that reshapes the entire landscape.

Fighters like Mikaelian are waiting in the wings, eyeing the winners. The division is poised for significant movement in the coming year. This IBF title fight is the first major step.

For Jai Opetaia, this defense is about maintaining his relentless reign as cruiserweight’s apex predator. For Huseyin Cinkara, it is a final, faith-driven pursuit of glory against the sport’s very best.

Info at your fingertips

When and where is the Opetaia vs. Cinkara fight?

The bout is scheduled for December 6, 2025. It will take place at the Gold Coast Convention Centre in Queensland, Australia.

Who is the favorite to win the fight?

Reigning champion Jai Opetaia is a heavy favorite. Bookmakers list him as a 25-1 favorite over challenger Huseyin Cinkara.

What is Jai Opetaia’s professional record?

Jai Opetaia has a perfect record of 28 wins and no losses. He has won 22 of those fights by way of knockout.

Why is this fight important for the cruiserweight division?

Opetaia is seen as the top champion. A win keeps him on course for major unification fights. An upset would completely reset the division’s hierarchy.

How has Huseyin Cinkara prepared for this challenge?

Cinkara prepared with high-level sparring partners, including Oleksandr Usyk. He has cited his deep faith and years of perseverance as key to his readiness.