- Former IBF cruiserweight champion Jai Opetaia was stripped by the IBF for taking a fight on the lucrative “Day of Reckoning” card in Saudi Arabia rather than fighting mandatory challenger Mairis Briedis.
- Briedis, rated IBF #3, was ordered by the IBF to negotiate with the next leading available contender to fight for the vacant belt.
- IBF #1 and IBF #2 ratings are vacant.
- IBF #4 rated Zurdo Ramirez has apparently opted to challenge WBA champion Arsen Goulamirian instead of Briedis.
- IBF #5 is Opetaia
- Opetaia will now reportedly fight Briedis on the February 17 Fury-Usyk undercard.
- In all likelihood, the bout will be sanctioned by the IBF for the vacant world title.
- This will be a rematch of their fight in June 2022, won by Opetaia via unanimous decision.
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