Jai Opetaia Stripped of IBF Belt for Attempting Zuffa Unification
The IBF plans to strip two-time champion Jai Opetaia of the cruiserweight title fight after un-sanctioning the Brandon Glanton bout. Furthermore, this move by the organization could have long-term effects on Zuffa Boxing’s ability to sign other fighters.
The IBF is the first sanctioning body to take action against a Zuffa Boxing fighter regarding their title rules. For what its worth, 3Kings Boxing’s Michael Wilson Jr. cited Opetaia’s decision as a problematic career move months ago.
THE IBF BRINGS DOWN THE HAMMER
Opetaia’s decision to sign for short-term financial gain is now hurting any chances of making legacy moves. Zuffa Boxing itself could be to blame for this disastrous blow to Opetaia’s career. They have announced that their title will be on the line, making the fight with Glanton a unification, which violates IBF Rule 5.H.
In a statement issued on its website, the organization clarified the reasons behind the decision to pull their sanction of the fight.
“For the purpose of unification of titles, the preeminent Champions of the World Boxing Association (“WBA”), the World Boxing Council (“WBC”), and the World Boxing Organization (“WBO”) may be designated as ‘elite contenders’ and may be permitted to fight for the unified title.”
“An Unsanctioned Contest is a fight which the IBF has not formally approved for sanction or where sanction has been formally withdrawn. If a Champion participates in an unsanctioned contest within his prescribed weight limit, the title will be declared vacant whether the Champion wins or loses the bout.”
HOW THIS COULD HURT ZUFFA BOXING
Being barred from world title fights may push Opetaia and others to consider pumping the brakes on Zuffa Boxing. This move by the IBF hurts the Las Vegas-based company’s long-term goals. Fighters may be reluctant to sign, knowing the sanctioning bodies are fighting back.
So long as the Zuffa Belt is being advertised as a legitimate world title, sanctioning body policies will prevent fighters from becoming sanctioned world champions. Even if the IBF was alone in this stance, no fighter could attain the Zuffa Belt and become a recognized undisputed champion. Earlier, Dana White told IFL TV that working with the other sanctioning bodies is “a work in progress.” Ultimately though, it may not be a longshot to bet the Zuffa Belt will go the way of the WBC Franchise title.
As of the writing of this article, White hasn’t commented on the decision by the IBF. But when he does, fans and pundits can expect him to unleash hellfire and brimstone in his response.
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