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Soccer star Tim Cahill’s cousin Jai Opetaia, 16, spars Danny Green

Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
(Picture from The Brisbane Times)
Youngster shares ring with IBO champ

Jai Opetaia, cousin of Everton Football Club’s star soccer player Tim Cahill, is a sixteen year-old amateur fighter who is deep in preparations for the forthcoming world youth championships. 

 Recently the youngster was given the opportunity to spar with Australia’s IBO world light-heavyweight champion Danny Green as he prepares to take on Antonio Tarver and gain valuable experience before his trip to Europe.

Opetaia, who hails from Watanobbi, has already taken former world champion Anthony Mundine a few rounds in sparring and has added another world renowned boxer to the list in 38 year-old Green. The Australian amateur team departs for the championships in Kazakhstan this Tuesday and Opetaia thinks the gym time with the Aussie boxing starts will stand him in good stead as he looks to claim gold at the under 80kg category.

“It feels pretty special,” Opetaia told the Central Coast Express Advocate.

“I’m the only young boy who has sparred with someone of their age and experience.

“They’re the best in Australia and world-class boxers, so for me to jump in the ring with them and hold my own is amazing. I had so much fun and learnt so much from them in such a small time.

“I want to bring home the gold medal and I think I can do it. I’ve got the speed and the power,” he added.
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