Jai Opetaia Lawsuit Accuses IBF Of Anti Zuffa Conspiracy

The cruiserweight star seeks restoration of his IBF title, damages and an injunction while alleging a coordinated effort linked to his move to Zuffa Boxing.

Jai Opetaia has filed a federal lawsuit against the International Boxing Federation, alleging the sanctioning body unlawfully stripped him of its cruiserweight title after he signed with Zuffa Boxing. The complaint seeks restoration of his championship, financial damages and an injunction preventing the IBF from recognizing another titleholder while the case proceeds.

“Corruption, backroom dealings, and industry-wide collusion in the sport of boxing sound like movie cliches, but unfortunately for world champion and Plaintiff Jai Opetaia, they are very real,” the complaint states per Yahoo Sports Boxing.

“The IBF’s actions violate the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act (“Ali Act”) and constitute fraud, breach of contract, breach of the implied covenant, intentional interference with contractual relations, and conspiracy.

“Jai seeks the return of his rightful IBF cruiserweight championship title and financial compensation for the harm he has suffered and continues to suffer. In the meantime, Jai is entitled to injunctive relief preventing the IBF from naming a new cruiserweight title champion or holding any bout for the IBF cruiserweight title.”

The complaint argues the IBF initially approved Opetaia’s March bout with Brandon Glanton after receiving assurances that the Zuffa World Cruiserweight Championship would be treated only as a trophy. Opetaia claims the sanctioning body reversed that decision two days before the fight despite having already accepted his sanctioning fee.

The lawsuit extends beyond the IBF. It also names the WBA. The WBC is included. The WBO appears in the filing as well. Opetaia identifies their respective presidents as participants in the alleged conspiracy. Former promoter Eddie Hearn is also named. The complaint points to Hearn’s public comments predicting the title would be stripped, claiming those remarks foreshadowed the decision. Opetaia further alleges supporting evidence exists in group text messages. He also cites WhatsApp conversations.

Opetaia claims losing the IBF title damaged his earning potential because major opportunities disappeared. The complaint cites David Benavidez’s public comments that he no longer wanted the matchup after Opetaia lost his title. It also alleges the WBC interfered with a proposed fight against Noel Mikaelian by directing Mikaelian toward Benavidez instead.

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