Eddie Hearn’s Warning to Jai Opetaia’s Rivals
Prominent UK promoter Eddie Hearn has cautioned Jai Opetaia’s fiercest opponent against “taking the p***” as he prepares for a major push into Australian boxing in 2026. Hearn, recently gaining attention from his Netflix documentary “The Greatest Showman,” has declared his intention to make a substantial impact Down Under over the coming year.
Superfight Potential
Among the exciting prospects being discussed is a superfight between Opetaia and Dmitry Bivol. In a conversation with Fox Sports Australia, Hearn also expressed interest in an all-Australian clash between George ‘Ferocious’ Kambosos and Liam Wilson, as well as the potential for Liam Paro to headline a Brisbane pay-per-view world title eliminator in January.
Concerns Over Gilberto Ramirez’s Demands
Hearn directed criticism towards the exorbitant fight purse demanded by Mexican superstar Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez, who is the opponent Opetaia most desires to face in 2026. Earlier this month, Opetaia’s manager Mick Francis disclosed that Ramirez and promoter Oscar de la Hoya have requested a $12 million purse to facilitate the fight.
Hearn’s Stance on Ridiculous Demands
Branding the request as “crazy,” Hearn implied that Saudi billionaire Turki Al-Sheikh likely feels the same way. Regardless, Hearn reassured fans of his determination to help Opetaia secure a chance at becoming the undisputed champion of his division.
The Path Forward for Opetaia
While Opetaia is set to defend his IBF and Ring cruiserweight titles against mandatory challenger Huseyin Cinkara in December, Hearn expressed that the fight everyone is keen to see is against Ramirez. He also clarified that if Opetaia wins, he will have a shot at the undisputed cruiserweight title, depending on outcomes in other divisions. Hearn believes that a matchup with either Bivol or David Benavidez could be on the horizon if the fight with Ramirez cannot be secured.
Upcoming Fights in 2026
In addition to plans for Opetaia, Hearn mentioned the possibility of an IBF welterweight title eliminator featuring Liam Paro against Irish fighter Paddy Donovan in January. Hearn aims to finalize plans for the fight early in the New Year, with venue negotiations suggesting Australia or Ireland as potential locations.
Kambosos’ Prospective Matchups
Regarding Kambosos, Hearn is optimistic about future opportunities, suggesting that despite Kambosos’s recent losses, he could still engage in lucrative domestic fights. A potential matchup between Kambosos and Wilson could be on the cards, provided Kambosos is willing to take on these challenges.
