TYSON FURY is close to sealing a shock fight against Australian cruiserweight Jai Opetaia, according to reports.
The Gypsy King has been searching for his next opponent since talks with Oleksandr Usyk broke down earlier this year.
Fury, 34, admitted he would be keen to fight in Australia and revealed he is looking at potential venues on his trip Down Under for pal Joseph Parker’s win against Faiga Opelu.
IBF cruiserweight champion Opetaia is a possible opponent with Tasman Fighters reporting a deal is all but agreed.
While Fury himself confirmed Demsey McKean is one of the favourites, with his southpaw style perfect for the Brit in his preparation to fight Usyk.
Fury said: “McKean’s a top ten heavyweight and definitely one of the frontrunners. If the Oleksandr Usyk fight is happening it’d be great preparation because he’s southpaw also.”
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However Opetaia’s manager Mick Francis is confident his fighter will fight Fury and he believes the Aussie can match the Gypsy King.
He said: “It’s a legitimate fight.
“Tyson Fury won’t get knocked out and Jai Opetaia won’t get knocked out. It’s a fight that will go the distance, it would be an absolute war.
“It’s all about bang for buck and you couldn’t wish for a better domestic fight.
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“Jai’s got nothing to prove in the cruiserweight division and he would take the fight in a heartbeat.”
Fury travelled to Australia this week and was ringside for Parker’s win.
He praised Aussie boxing fans and revealed he could fight in the country soon.
Fury said: “I’m definitely keen, it may even be my next fight, over here.
“I just haven’t got an opponent yet, so we’re going to figure it out. Over the next few days, we’re going to be travelling around to a few different states and looking at some potential venues for my next fight.
“Australians are always crazy boxing fans, so it would be great to get the Gypsy King Down Under.”
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
