Richard Riakporhe has made it clear that his next big objective is a shot at a world heavyweight championship. The London‑born former cruiserweight contender, who once challenged for a world title at 200 pounds, stepped up to the heavyweight division and captured the British heavyweight crown with a decisive stoppage win over Jeamie TKV on Tyson Fury’s undercard at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. That victory, according to Riakporhe, was intended as a signal to the entire heavyweight landscape that he is a serious threat.
In an interview with Sky Sports, the new British champion explained why he believes his style adds a fresh element to the heavyweight scene. "Fans want knockouts. They want to see powerful punches that make them jump out of their seats and spend their hard‑earned money to watch a real fighter who can deliver those moments," he said.
"You can see from my aura and my body language that I’m absolutely serious about delivering genuine damage in this division." The British heavyweight title has historically been a springboard for fighters to reach the global stage, and Riakporhe sees his reign as a stepping stone toward that ultimate goal. He repeatedly emphasized his hunger for a world title bout, naming the current top contenders as potential targets. "I want a title fight," he declared.
"I’m watching Daniel Dubois, Fabio Wardley, and the whole situation with Oleksandr Usyk. I want a piece of one of those belts." Riakporhe also pointed out that a new generation of heavyweights is emerging, and he believes the established names are underestimating the threat posed by hungry up‑and‑comers like himself. "It’s risky for the well‑established guys to step into the ring with us.
We’re dangerous, we’re hungry, and anything can happen. It’s not smart for them to ignore us.
Give up the belts so we can fight!" he urged. While there is no guaranteed pathway that will catapult him straight into a world championship bout, Riakporhe remains optimistic that the right opportunity will arise. He described his current situation as navigating a constantly shifting sea of possibilities.
"The landscape is always changing. The only thing I can do is stay ready," he said. "Every single day I’m adding another brick to the foundation that will eventually make me a champion." Having spent several years in the sport, Riakporhe says he has observed the full cycle of a boxer's career—from the early gym days to the pinnacle of success and sometimes the inevitable decline. "I’ve seen people come through the gym, I’ve seen them reach the top, and I’ve seen them fall.
I’ve seen it all," he reflected. This perspective, he believes, gives him a strategic advantage. "That’s why I just sit down, do my work, and trust the process.
Sooner or later you’ll see me at the top because I understand how the system works." He also highlighted the importance of staying adaptable. The heavyweight division, he noted, is in a state of flux with new talents emerging and veterans looking to cement their legacies.
"We’re trying to push toward a world title fight," he affirmed, underscoring his commitment to making that leap. Beyond the immediate goal of a world title, Riakporhe is focused on honing the attributes that make a heavyweight champion: power, precision, and endurance. He has been intensifying his training regimen, incorporating advanced strength‑and‑conditioning programs, and working closely with a team of seasoned coaches to refine his technique. The emphasis on explosive power is evident in his recent fights, where he has demonstrated the ability to end bouts with a single, well‑placed punch.
Riakporhe’s ambition is not just personal; he sees himself as part of a broader narrative for British heavyweight boxing. The British title has historically been a launchpad for legends such as Lennox Lewis and Tyson Fury, and Riakporhe hopes to follow in those footsteps. By capturing the national belt and delivering compelling performances, he aims to rekindle interest in the sport among British fans and attract a new generation of supporters. In addition to his in‑ring aspirations, Riakporhe is also mindful of the business side of boxing.
He acknowledges that securing a world title fight often involves negotiations, promotional alignments, and timing. "I’m just navigating the seas for opportunities," he reiterated. "The landscape is always changing, and the only thing I can do is be ready." His confidence is rooted in a realistic assessment of his progress.
He points to measurable improvements in his punch output, defensive maneuvers, and stamina during sparring sessions. Moreover, his recent knockout victory over TKV has boosted his credibility among promoters and fans alike, providing tangible proof that he can compete at the highest level.
Looking ahead, Riakporhe envisions a series of strategic fights that will position him as a mandatory challenger for a world title. He is open to facing any of the current heavyweight champions or top contenders, believing that each bout will bring him closer to his ultimate objective. "I want to fight the best, I want to test myself against the elite, and I want to prove that I belong in that conversation," he said. In summary, Richard Riakporhe is a boxer who has transitioned from cruiserweight contender to British heavyweight champion with a clear, unwavering focus on securing a world title.
He combines raw power with disciplined preparation, a deep understanding of the sport’s ecosystem, and a hunger that he believes sets him apart. As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, Riakporhe stands ready to seize his moment, confident that his dedication and readiness will eventually earn him a place on the world stage.