WBA Names Mandatory Challenger for “Zurdo”: Who Is It and Will There Be a Fight Against Opetaia?

The World Boxing Association (WBA) has officially mandated that Mexican heavyweight champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez (47–1, 30 KOs), who currently holds the WBA and WBO titles, must defend his belts against Cuban Yuniel Dorticos (27–2, 25 KOs). According to The Ring, this bout is expected to take place in the coming months.

While a fight between Ramírez and IBF champion Jay Opetaia (27–0, 21 KOs) is seen as inevitable, it is not scheduled to happen next.

Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn, representing Opetaia’s interests, explained that a contest between the Australian fighter and “Zurdo” Ramírez could be arranged as part of a 5 vs. 5 tournament between Matchroom and Golden Boy Promotions.

“I believe this is the best fight in this weight class — I truly do. I had an excellent conversation with Oscar De La Hoya in Riyadh during the week of the Usyk vs. Fury fight and discussed it with Golden Boy director Eric Gomez. We’re talking about making this fight part of the 5 vs. 5 summer concept.

I think it would be an incredible fight for 5 vs. 5. Honestly, it would be a fantastic headliner for any boxing night. It’s the marquee bout in this division. And, obviously, the winner will only have the WBC belt left to claim undisputed status.

There is a mandatory defense against Dorticos. In the end, this matter can be resolved,” Hearn told The Ring.