It argues that its rules required Opetaia to bring the case in New Jersey, where the IBF is based. The organization also claims he went to court without completing its mandatory internal appeal process. Opetaia has until September 8 to respond.
Those objections give the IBF a chance to attack the lawsuit without immediately defending the decision to remove Opetaia as cruiserweight champion. A ruling based on venue or internal appeal grounds would not establish that his accusations lack merit.
He may be allowed to refile in New Jersey or complete the IBF appeal procedure before returning to court. A dismissal
