“It’s About the Money, but Not Quite.” Jai Opetaia Explains Why He Joined Zuffa Boxing

IBF Cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia has explained why he decided to join the new boxing promotion Zuffa Boxing.

“I signed with Zuffa Boxing because I feel it’s a massive opportunity, which I’m also grateful for. I feel like this is going to be a big chapter in boxing, looking at how everything is moving.

Obviously, the financial side plays a part too. They pay well, but for me, it’s never been about the money. I’ve taken pay cuts, I’ve offered people half my purse just to get ahead. You know, money is one thing, but becoming undisputed — I believe that is what will bring me the money.

It’s not about the money. Although it is about the money, but not quite. I know you have to invest your time and effort. I think I was something like 19-0 when I got my first paycheck. You know what I mean? My money always went back into the fights and things like that. No one ever gave me anything. I’ve had to f*ing earn it myself. I’ve always had to take the long way. Don’t worry about me. Just let me make myself. We fight. We get paid. We just have to keep winning,” said Opetaia.

As a reminder, Jai Opetaia (29-0, 23 KOs) will make his Zuffa Boxing debut on March 8 in Las Vegas, USA.