Richard Riakporhe has extended an invitation to Johnny Fisher for a bout for the British heavyweight championship, provided the challenger first secures a victory over Michael Pirotton. The clash is scheduled for Saturday night at London’s Copper Box Arena and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Riakporhe, who transitioned from cruiserweight to heavyweight last year after serving as a world title challenger at the lower weight, has made a significant impact in the division. He recently captured the British heavyweight title by dominating Jeamie TKV, ending the contest via stoppage in the fifth round.
Fisher, known as the “Romford Bull,” has expressed ambitions of challenging for a world title, noting that he believes he is only two victories away from that level. However, he must first succeed against Pirotton to earn the opportunity to face Riakporhe.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Riakporhe explained his decision to offer the fight. “It would be good. I like Fisher. I remember after my match I actually offered them the opportunity to fight if they want,” he said. He praised Fisher’s style and character, adding, “Very respectful, likeable, and he’s a big puncher himself as well and a strong guy, like an ox. So it would be good for the fans to see.”
While acknowledging his own status as a top-10 ranked fighter, Riakporhe revealed he is a supporter of Fisher and the Bosh family. “I’m going to be watching and cheering him on at the weekend,” he stated. Despite this camaraderie, the champion remains focused on his own trajectory toward the sport’s highest honors.
Riakporhe identified several current heavyweights as his ultimate targets, including Fabio Wardley, Daniel Dubois, Agit Kabayel, and Filip Hrgovic. “I want one of those titles… I’m training myself to compete for one of those belts. My eyes are just locked on to whatever’s going to propel me to get one of those titles,” he said. He also emphasized his commitment to entertaining audiences, asserting, “I’m definitely arguably one of the heaviest hitters in the world. That’s a fact.”
Romford Bull vs the Champion sounds like a classic local rivalry setup. I’m watching this live on Saturday.
Riakporhe wants Dubois and Kabayel, but keeps giving fights to guys like Fisher. Priorities seem a bit mixed.
The British heavyweight division is actually competitive again. This looks like a solid undercard event.
Is Pirotton really the gatekeeper? He’s decent but feels like a steep hurdle for Fisher right now.
Glad to see a champion offering a fair shot instead of running away. Fisher needs to step up now.