Richard Riakporhe is relishing the opportunity to compete against the elite heavyweights globally and believes he can overcome all but one of them. The 35-year-old, who recently entered the heavyweight division with a knockout win over Kevin Nicolas Espindola, is firm in his stance that Oleksandr Usyk is the sole fighter among the top contenders whom he wouldn`t feel certain about defeating.
When presented with a list of notable names including Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, Joseph Parker, and Daniel Dubois, Riakporhe responded with “I`ll beat him” for each. He stated, “I`ll fight all of them. I genuinely would face any of them.” He emphasized the necessary mindset in boxing: “If you`re not confident in yourself in this sport, then there`s no point participating.”
However, when discussing Usyk, Riakporhe remarked, “This one feels distinct.”
Riakporhe, nicknamed `The Midnight Train`, is clearly self-assured. The former world title challenger is convinced he possesses a higher level of skill than many of his current rivals in the heavyweight ranks. He commented, “I see myself operating on the international stage.” After observing the division, he concluded, “I`ve assessed their capabilities. I`ve seen the standard of boxing at heavyweight and – without question – I have superior skill, I know that for a fact. It`s quite apparent.”
He continued, “It was merely a question of how I would fare at this weight: Can I deliver powerful punches? Can I withstand shots? And so forth. Can I move effectively? Do I remain agile? Am I imposing? People are now witnessing this and recognizing the potential. But I`ve always held myself in high regard.”
Riakporhe also believes the current era presents an excellent chance for ascending heavyweights like himself, as many established figures in the division are approaching retirement. He declared, “Absolutely, my goal is to win a heavyweight world title.” He described the present situation as “very intriguing times. Usyk largely holds the reins, but the veterans are nearing the exit. To be honest, they are on their way out.”
He anticipates, “Joshua, Tyson Fury, they will have a few more bouts and then retire. The division will become wide open. I believe my timing is perfect. I feel everything unfolds for a reason, and I expect to gain significantly from this transition.”
He added, “Any fighter who is young, motivated, possesses power, and has exceptional genetics – for which I`m grateful to my parents – is set for some major fights.”
On Lawrence Okolie
However, Riakporhe is eager to put discussions about a potential clash with Lawrence Okolie behind him, following the cancellation of their scheduled April fight due to Okolie reportedly sustaining an injury. Riakporhe expressed frustration, saying, “Don`t even mention his name. That fighter is supposedly a two-time world champion but lacks the bravery to get into the ring and make this fight happen, instead inventing an injury story.”
He continued, “To this day, we have received no proof of what occurred. The man is deceptive. So now, we are moving forward; I am concentrating on more significant opportunities.”
Riakporhe stated, “If he finds his courage, the fight could be rescheduled. The responsibility for the delay lies entirely with him. We were prepared, which was evident, surprising everyone.” Riakporhe suggested a historical lack of enthusiasm from Okolie: “If you know the history, he never genuinely wanted the fight – that`s the truth. That`s why it hasn`t happened, and it`s reached a point where I won`t pursue someone like a child.”
He concluded, “When fighters are serious, we can arrange the bout, but if they are not, we simply move on – which is a shame, because many people were keen to see that fight.”
Okolie has not commented on the injury and made only a brief social media remark referencing Riakporhe: “Not the same. Forever in my shadow.”
Murray Blackwood