Turki Alalshikh Wants to Organize Opetaia vs. Benavidez

IBF Cruiserweight Champion Jai Opetaia revealed that he received a roadmap from the Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, Turki Alalshikh, which could lead him to a fight against WBC Light Heavyweight Champion David Benavidez.

“There’s a real plan of action. He (Turki Alalshikh) told me we’ll get Badou Jack — another tough fight. If we win, then it’s Gilberto Ramirez. And once we get through that, he said he wants Benavidez to move up to cruiserweight, and I’ll be the one to fight him.

If that’s our path, then let’s f***ing do it. I’m pumped. I’d love nothing more than to face Benavidez. He’s a great fighter with a huge following. He’s fought excellent opponents. Once we make it happen, maybe that’s when the heavyweight split begins. But I’m not rushing it. I’ve dreamed my whole life of becoming an undisputed world champion — and I will be,” Opetaia said.

In June, Jai Opetaia (28-0, 22 KOs) knocked out Claudio Squeo in the fifth round. His next fight is scheduled for December 6 against Hussein Chinkara.

In February, David Benavidez (30-0, 24 KOs) defeated David Morrell by unanimous decision, and on November 22 he will face Anthony Yarde.