Craig Richards is set to return to his native London for a pivotal bout that will take place at the Copper Box Arena on September 26, with the event being broadcast live on Sky Sports. This matchup sees Richards square off against Belgrade‑born heavyweight Radivoje Kalajdzic, and it forms the co‑main event supporting the headline clash between Johnny Fisher and Michael Pirotton.
The Londoner, who grew up in the Crystal Palace area, has made it clear that a victory over Kalajdzic is essential if he hopes to re‑establish himself among the elite ranks of the light‑heavyweight division and earn another shot at a world championship. Kalajdzic, meanwhile, arrives in the UK with considerable momentum.
He recently delivered a spectacular knockout of former WBC champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk, a fight that underscored his power and technical skill. Prior to that, Kalajdzic has shared the ring with top‑tier opponents such as Artur Beterbiev and has also dispatched former world‑title challenger Sullivan Barrera by way of a decisive stoppage.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Richards emphasized the significance of the upcoming fight: "If I can step into the ring with him and put on a statement performance, it will put my name back in the conversation for a world title, absolutely. I'm locked in and ready to get the job done. I want to be a world champion." His words reflect a deep‑seated ambition that dates back to his previous title challenge. In 2021, Richards earned the opportunity to contest the WBA light‑heavyweight crown against Dmitry Bivol.
Although he ultimately lost by unanimous decision, the judges’ scores were tighter than many expected, demonstrating Richards’ ability to compete at the highest level. Since that fight, Bivol has cemented his status as the division’s premier fighter, notably defeating Artur Beterbiev in a high‑profile showdown.
Richards is determined to return to that same echelon, believing that a win over Kalajdzic will serve as a springboard back into title contention. Richards also spoke about his personal journey and the sacrifices he has made throughout his career.
"My story isn’t finished yet," he said. "I didn’t endure all the hardships and give up everything just to fall short of my goal of becoming a world champion. I feel that the work I’ve put in deserves a reward, and that reward is the championship belt.
I’m not being entitled; I’m simply acknowledging the effort I’ve invested and the result I deserve." He added that fighting in front of a home crowd adds an extra layer of motivation. "Having a co‑main‑event in front of a London audience is the perfect way to start this chapter. If I can execute on the night, we can move forward from there." The atmosphere at the Copper Box Arena, known for its vibrant energy during sporting events, is expected to amplify the stakes for both combatants. Kalajdzic’s recent knockout of Gvozdyk has raised his profile considerably.
Gvozdyk, a former world champion, was a formidable opponent, and Kalajdzic’s ability to finish him cleanly has signaled to the boxing world that he belongs among the division’s top contenders. His experience against fighters like Beterbiev, who is widely regarded as one of the most powerful and technically proficient light‑heavyweights of his generation, provides Kalajdzic with a valuable résumé. Moreover, his victory over Sullivan Barrera, a seasoned veteran who once challenged for a world title, further demonstrates his capacity to handle high‑pressure situations. The upcoming fight therefore represents a clash of two fighters with clear objectives.
Richards is looking to reclaim his place among the division’s elite, while Kalajdzic aims to continue his ascent after a series of impressive wins. Both athletes have expressed confidence in their preparation and strategy. Richards’ camp has focused on sharpening his jab, improving footwork, and ensuring his conditioning can withstand Kalajdzic’s power. Meanwhile, Kalajdzic’s team has emphasized maintaining his aggressive style while refining defensive tactics to mitigate Richards’ counter‑punching abilities.
Analysts predict that the bout could be a turning point for either boxer. If Richards succeeds, he could position himself as a mandatory challenger for the next world title bout, potentially setting up a rematch with Bivol or a new showdown against another top contender. Conversely, a victory for Kalajdzic would likely catapult him into the top‑five rankings, opening doors for higher‑profile fights and possibly a future title shot. Fans are encouraged to tune in to Sky Sports on September 26 to watch the live action.
The broadcast will feature pre‑fight analysis, interviews with both fighters, and post‑fight commentary to provide a comprehensive view of the event. For viewers seeking the best experience, using a Chrome browser is recommended to access a more accessible video player. In summary, Craig Richards’ return to London for the Copper Box Arena showdown against Radivoje Kalajdzic is more than just a co‑main‑event; it is a pivotal moment in his quest to reclaim world‑championship status. With a determined mindset, a supportive home crowd, and a clear path to the title on the line, Richards is poised to deliver a performance that could reshape the future of the light‑heavyweight division.
The stakes are high, the narratives compelling, and the anticipation palpable – making this a must‑watch encounter for boxing enthusiasts worldwide.