Deontay Wilder vs Jai Opetaia: George Groves makes knockout prediction for heavyweight clash

On December 11 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua will finally meet in a heavyweight contest, with the WBA “super” heavyweight title on the line. The event will be streamed exclusively on Netflix and promoted by Sela, Matchroom Boxing, and Queensberry Promotions. The undercard is set, and in the co-main event, Deontay Wilder vs Jai Opetaia will take place in the heavyweight division, and ahead of that bout, George Groves recently spoke to Pro Boxing Fans, where he revealed his pick for the co-main.

George Groves makes his pick for Deontay Wilder vs Jai Opetaia

The biggest question ahead of Deontay Wilder vs Jai Opetaia is: what does “The Bronze Bomber” have left? 

Wilder (45-4-1, 43 KOs) has built a fearsome reputation, with many calling him one of the biggest punchers in the history of the heavyweight division. His dynamite right hand often pulled him back from the brink of defeat. His trilogy against Tyson Fury will be remembered by most for the multiple knockdowns and non-stop action.

Opetaia (31-0, 24 KOs) has dazzled at cruiserweight while chasing the biggest fights. He is still the current Ring magazine champ and former two-time cruiserweight world champion. His best performances have come against David Nyika and Mairis Briedis.

Speaking on the Deontay Wilder vs Jai Opetaia bout, Groves gave a knockout prediction to Pro Boxing Fans:

“I think that Opetaia wins. I think that he does stop Wilder and we have a good relationship with both camps, both guys. We have spent some quality time with Opetaia and his team and we do think that he is a supreme talent.

“I think that he is a tremendous fighter and I think that maybe his best is still to come for him. For Wilder, you can’t say the same, you can’t say that the best is to come with Wilder. I think that it is a dangerous fight for him.”

The Big Fight Weekend verdict

What does Wilder have left? And if he lands that right hand on Opetaia’s chin, can the Aussie take it? Those two questions will dominate the build-up to this fight and split opinions. Is it the fight we wanted for either of these? Many would say no, but it does come with intrigue because of the questions above.

If Wilder can control the distance with his jab and throw that right off the jab, he could frustrate and hurt the Aussie. However, if Opetaia can use his feet, move in and out of range effectively while picking his spots, I could also see him break down the aging American.

Looking at the qualities of both, I am backing Opetaia to win by a late stoppage.

Featured Image Credit:

Mikey Williams Top Rank Boxing