Jai Opetaia’s best chance against David Benavidez could depend on controlling when the exchanges happen, according to Ahmad Elhawli. In Raw Sport’s latest episode, the host argues that purposeful movement, well-timed power and the ability to interrupt combinations make the proposed matchup more complicated than a simple contest between punch volume and knockout threat.
Elhawli’s central question is whether Opetaia can make Benavidez reset before his attacks gather momentum. In his assessment, Benavidez is particularly dangerous when he can plant his feet, close the distance and release successive punches. Allowing him to settle into that rhythm would place a different demand on Opetaia from choosing individual moments to attack.
The answer Elhawli explores is a balance between movement and resistance. He wants Opetaia to land his left hand, take an angle and leave before the response arrives. But he also argues that the Australian must hit hard enough early to discourage Benavidez from advancing without hesitation. Simply moving away would leave the question of how to command respect unanswered.
Summing up his interpretation of Andre Ward’s advice during the broadcast, Elhawli says: “Land enough to earn respect and choose when to exchange.” That captures the tactical thread running through the discussion: Opetaia would need to select his moments without being drawn into matching every burst of punches.
Elhawli also identifies a danger in spending too long at close range. He believes Benavidez has the faster hands on the inside, where placement and the speed of combinations become especially important. From that perspective, Opetaia’s willingness to trade could become a vulnerability if it allows Benavidez to dictate the terms of an exchange.
The live audience challenges that reading throughout the episode. Some viewers see Opetaia’s footwork and power as the tools to prevent Benavidez from building pressure; others question whether the Australian would be too available to hit. Elhawli repeatedly asks supporters of either fighter to explain the mechanics behind their predictions, bringing the conversation back to distance, positioning and reactions.
The jab becomes another point of debate. Rather than settle on a clear advantage for either man, Elhawli asks viewers how each fighter uses it. His discussion distinguishes between different jabs and their purposes, including setting up attacks and controlling range. The emphasis is on what a punch creates, alongside how quickly it reaches its target.
Beyond the technical contest, the episode considers the trade-off between staying active and protecting a major opportunity. Elhawli discusses a possible Deontay Wilder bout for Opetaia as a rumour, explicitly distinguishing it from a confirmed fight. He sees potential exposure in that scenario while raising questions about a subsequent return to cruiserweight. Viewers counter that avoiding a weight cut would not necessarily mean adding substantial weight.
That exchange leaves the issue open rather than establishing a settled conclusion. Elhawli also makes clear that naming desired opponents does not mean contracts have been signed. The episode’s discussion of possible routes towards Benavidez is therefore a debate about options and risks, rather than a confirmed schedule.
Running beneath those arguments is Elhawli’s broader appeal for Australian audiences and media to engage more consistently with local boxing. He believes Opetaia deserves a level of national backing that reflects the international interest he sees in the matchup. His call is for ongoing coverage and substantive discussion between major events.
Elhawli stops short of selecting a winner. His focus is on the problems each fighter would have to solve: Opetaia finding space to land and leave, and Benavidez finding ways to sustain pressure against an opponent who can move and punch back. Watch the full episode for the tactical discussion and the audience’s competing views.