Unifying world boxing titles remains a distant goal for Jai Opetaia, as the Australian champion prepares for his next bout. The IBF and The Ring cruiserweight titleholder will face off against Italy's Claudio Squeo in May on Australia's Gold Coast. Despite his frustration over postponed unification fights, Opetaia insists he won't overlook this "stay busy" match. Known for his impressive record and relentless pursuit of top-tier opponents, Opetaia's upcoming fight reflects both the challenges and opportunities in his career.

Opetaia, who has established himself as one of Australia's premier boxers, recently confirmed his voluntary defense against Squeo. This announcement comes after unsuccessful attempts to secure a high-profile unification bout with Mexican star Gilberto Ramirez. Ranked highly by several organizations, Ramirez holds the WBA and WBO titles, making him an ideal opponent for Opetaia's aspirations. However, negotiations have stalled, leaving Opetaia to focus on maintaining his form against lesser-known adversaries.

While some might view the Italian contender as a less formidable rival, Opetaia remains committed to treating every fight with seriousness. His previous performance showcased his dominance when he decisively defeated New Zealand's David Nyika last year. That victory highlighted Opetaia's ability to deliver powerful results under pressure, even if the circumstances surrounding the bout were unconventional. Now, as he gears up for another challenge, Opetaia continues to express his desire for more significant matchups.

Prominent promoter Eddie Hearn shares Opetaia's optimism about future unification possibilities. According to Hearn, Ramirez may first need to address his own mandatory obligations before considering a clash with Opetaia. Yet, there are strategic ways around such constraints, depending on how willing fighters are to take calculated risks. As Opetaia waits patiently for these larger contests, his immediate priority lies in overcoming Squeo and reinforcing his status as a dominant force in the division.

Looking ahead, Opetaia's journey toward unifying cruiserweight titles appears fraught with both obstacles and promise. By successfully navigating through interim fights like the one against Squeo, he aims to keep momentum on his side. With each victory, he inches closer to realizing his ultimate ambition—clashing with the best in the sport and cementing his legacy in professional boxing history.