Jai Opetaia vs. David Nyika: Best Bets Revealed for Jan. 8

2025 is here, and it has been a slow start in the boxing world. But on January 8, the IBF cruiserweight king Jai Opetaia (26-0, 20 KOs) will return to action at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre against New Zealand fighter David Nyika (10-0, 9 KOs). If you’re looking for boxing best bets, this highly anticipated matchup offers plenty of opportunities. Nyika and Opetaia are familiar with each other, having sparred in the past, which adds intrigue to this world title clash. Ahead of this Australia vs. New Zealand bout, Dan Rafael and TJ Rives have appeared on the Bet US boxing show to share their insights for the main event and undercard.

Boxing Best Bets: Jai Opetaia vs. David Nyika

Boxing Best Bets for Jai Opetaia vs. David Nyika

Opetaia was set to face undefeated mandatory Huseyin Cinkara before the German fighter had to withdraw due to an ankle injury. Nyika is also undefeated and has impressed so far in his professional career. He has won his last two in dominant style, stopping Michael Seitz and Tommy Karpency. The New Zealand fighter has fast hands and carries power. He also times his punches well and will be coming to shock the boxing world on Jan 8.

Read More: Jai Opetaia Overwhelms Jack Massey in Cruiserweight World Title Defence

On the Bet US show – Rafael and Rives revealed their picks for Opetaia vs. Nyika. Rafael and Rives picked Opetaia to win by KO at -250. Rafael also believes Nyika will offer some resistance with our insider selecting Opetaia/Nyika over 6.5 rounds at -165. Both also looked at Justis Huni (11-0, 6 KOs) vs. Shaun Potgieter (10-1, 7 KOs), with Rafael picking Huni/Potgieter over 4.5 rounds at -125. Rives revealed his faith in Huni to continue his recent stoppage form and win by KO at -500.

Read More: Five Heavyweight Fighters to Watch in 2025

Stay with Big Fight Weekend for coverage of the impending fight between Opetaia and Nyika, including results and video highlights, and post-fight analysis