Opetaia vs Thompson – DAZN – Sept. 30 – 2 pm ET

Jai Opetaia, the undisputed holder of the IBF and Ring Magazine Cruiserweight World Titles, will defend his titles against Jordan Thompson. This fight is set to be the highlight of a night filled with World Championship boxing at the OVO Arena Wembley on Saturday, September 30, available for viewing live worldwide on DAZN (except in Australia and New Zealand).

Opetaia (22-0, 17 KOs) came out victorious against Mairis Briedis in July 2022, displaying an impressive blend of skill and bravery. In a fight that had fans stunned, Opetaia outclassed the Latvian, even after suffering a jaw injury during the second and final rounds.

Aged 28, Opetaia’s flawless professional record includes 22 wins since he turned pro in August 2015. His fighting career began with a sparkling run in the amateurs, capturing gold in the World Junior Championships in 2011. His crowning achievement came when he represented Australia in the 2012 Olympics in London, making him the youngest-ever Australian Olympic boxer.

Next month, he’s heading back to London, risking his prized possessions against Manchester’s undefeated contender, Thompson (15-0, 12 KOs). Thompson recently triumphed with a dominating sixth-round TKO over Luke Watkins in Cardiff, establishing himself as a serious challenger.

Thompson, a 6′ 7″ force to be reckoned with, has been training under Tony Sims at the Matchroom Boxing Elite Gym in Essex. Since signing with Eddie Hearn in June 2021, he’s secured all five of his fights, the latest being his win over Vasil Ducar, claiming the IBF European Title.

In the women’s division, Catford’s Ellie Scotney (7-0), the 122lbs sensation, will defend her IBF World Title. Her challenger is Argentina’s Laura Soledad Griffa (20-8, 1 KO), who will be attempting to win the IBF Super-Bantamweight for the second time. Griffa, known as ‘La Joya,’ has also contested for other notable titles and achieved victory in her 2023 matches.

Other exciting bouts include dangerous Cruiserweight Cheavon Clarke (6-0, 5 KOs) in his first title match against Vasil Ducar (14-6-2, 10 KOs) and Warrington’s Rhiannon Dixon (8-0, 1 KO) versus Norway’s Katherina Thanderz (16-1, 2 KOs) for the vacant EBU European Lightweight crown.

Adding to the excitement, Billericay Middleweight George Liddard (4-0, 3 KOs) and Eltham Flyweight Maiseyrose Courtney (4-0) are back after recent wins. Watford Super-Flyweight Shannon Ryan (5-0) will be in action for the sixth time, and Tony Sims-trained Middleweight Jimmy Sains is set to make his professional debut.

Opetaia boldly declared, “The time has finally come for a worthy opponent to challenge me, and it appears the fight is on. Kudos to Jordan for accepting the challenge, but I sincerely hope he’s prepared!”

Thompson, with a steely determination, responded, “Opetaia holds the rank of the division’s best, and that’s why I seek to challenge him. September 30th is my moment to shine. I’m not here to merely participate; I’m here to win, to claim victory.”

Scotney, reflecting on her dreams and ambitions, stated, “Holding a World Title was my dream, but my hunger for success doesn’t stop there. I aim to be the undisputed best Super-Bantamweight in the world, and a true champion must defend her title. Come September 30, in the very place where I became World Champion, I will demonstrate the various levels in this sport.”

Griffa, filled with anticipation, exclaimed, “Fighting for the World Title once more thrills me! Ellie Scotney may be skilled, but she lacks the heart and tenacity I possess. I’m a real warrior, ready to wage war in London this September, and bring the World Title back to Argentina.”

Eddie Hearn, Chairman of Matchroom Sport, provided a broad overview, saying, “On September 30, the OVO Arena Wembley will host an incredible double-header featuring IBF Cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia and Ellie Scotney defending her IBF Super-Bantamweight crown. Jai’s victory over Briedis marked a historic moment for Australian boxing, affirming his position at the top. Jordan’s courage in stepping up to this challenge deserves tremendous admiration. As for Ellie, she’s set on unifying the Super-Bantamweight division and achieving more titles. Don’t miss the undercard with other exciting matchups, all available live on DAZN.”