Jai Opetaia Discusses Failed Zurdo Ramirez Fight Talks, Teases 'Perfect' Future Plans

The cruiserweight champion looks ahead to his Zuffa Boxing debut against Brandon Glanton and potential unification bouts.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Ahead of his Zuffa Boxing debut against Brandon Glanton on March 8, cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia discussed the failed negotiations for a fight against Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez. Opetaia expressed disappointment that the Zurdo fight didn't materialize, but said he's focused on handling his business and believes the unification bout will happen in the future. The Australian fighter also teased plans for a potential showdown against WBC cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian around June, which he described as 'perfect'.

Why it matters

Opetaia is one of the rising stars in the cruiserweight division, holding the lineal and IBF titles. His comments provide insight into the behind-the-scenes negotiations for high-profile fights, as well as his ambitious plans to unify the cruiserweight championships.

The details

Opetaia (29-0, 23 KOs) is set to defend his titles against Brandon Glanton (21-3, 18 KOs) in the main event of a Zuffa Boxing card on Paramount+ on March 8 in Las Vegas. Glanton is a tough challenger who is coming off an impressive win over Marcus Browne. While Opetaia was disappointed that a fight against Zurdo Ramirez didn't come to fruition, he expressed confidence that the unification bout will happen in the future as long as he keeps winning. The Australian fighter also revealed plans for a potential showdown against WBC champion Noel Mikaelian around June, which he described as the 'perfect' next step in his quest to unify the cruiserweight titles.

  • Jai Opetaia vs. Brandon Glanton is scheduled for March 8, 2026 in Las Vegas.
  • Opetaia is targeting a fight against WBC champion Noel Mikaelian around June 2026.

The players

Jai Opetaia

The undefeated Australian cruiserweight champion, holding the lineal and IBF titles.

Brandon Glanton

Opetaia's upcoming challenger, a tough cruiserweight contender coming off an impressive win over Marcus Browne.

Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez

A former super middleweight champion who Opetaia was in talks to fight for a cruiserweight unification bout.

Noel Mikaelian

The current WBC cruiserweight champion, who Opetaia is targeting for a potential unification fight around June 2026.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think there was much conversation to be honest. I feel like we f***ing wanted the fight and they said no. It is what it is. I got to take care of business on the 8th, and I've got no doubt that fight will come. We just gotta keep winning and focusing on our job.”

— Jai Opetaia, Cruiserweight Champion (Fight Freaks Unite Podcast)

“We've got to make sure we deliver every time we step in the ring, and then we just get closer and closer to getting these fights over the line.”

— Jai Opetaia, Cruiserweight Champion (Fight Freaks Unite Podcast)

What’s next

Opetaia is targeting a unification fight against WBC cruiserweight champion Noel Mikaelian around June 2026, which he described as the 'perfect' next step in his quest to become the undisputed champion.

The takeaway

Jai Opetaia's comments provide a glimpse into the high-stakes negotiations for top-level fights in the cruiserweight division. Despite the disappointment of the failed Zurdo Ramirez fight, Opetaia remains focused on handling his business and positioning himself for the unification bouts that will cement his legacy as one of the premier cruiserweights in the sport.