Kiwi boxer David Nyika to fight in World Title Eliminator

David Nyika will step into the ring for a high-stakes, 12-round IBF Cruiserweight World Title Eliminator at Auckland’s Eventfinda Stadium on Saturday, 8 August 2026.

The Hamilton-born star enters the bout with a stellar 12-1 professional record, aiming to put himself right back into the world championship picture after losing to Jai Opetaia for the IBF and Ring Magazine titles in January last year.

The upcoming fight marks a highly anticipated return to the ring for Nyika, who last fought on 13 December 2025, when he secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Wuzhati Nuerlang in Australia.

As one of New Zealand's most decorated amateur boxers with two Commonwealth Games gold medals and an Olympic bronze to his name, Nyika is now laser-focused on capturing a professional world title.

Standing in his way is former IBO World Cruiserweight Champion Floyd Masson, a Te Awamutu-born fighter who now represents Australia and boasts a formidable 17-2 record.

The winner of this intense Trans-Tasman clash will become the IBF's number one challenger, locking in a mandatory shot at the vacant IBF Cruiserweight World Championship.

Adding serious star power to the heavyweight night of action is former Warriors rugby league sensation Manu Vatuvei.

The fan-favourite is locked in to feature on the undercard against a yet-to-be-confirmed opponent, bringing his explosive athleticism back to the boxing ring.

The blockbuster card will also showcase undefeated Kiwi contender Sheilla Yama as she puts her perfect 9-0 record on the line.