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 fight being broadcast live on Sky Sports. This encounter forms the main undercard attraction supporting the headline showdown between Johnny Fisher and Michael Pirotton. In this co‑main‑event, Richards will face Serbia‑born contender Radivoje Kalajdzic, a fighter who has quickly risen through the ranks and is now regarded as a serious threat in the light‑heavyweight division. Richards, a native of the Crystal Palace area, has made it clear that he views this fight as a crucial stepping‑stone toward reclaiming his status as a world‑championship contender.
Kalajdzic enters the ring on the back of an impressive knockout victory over former WBC world champion Oleksandr Gvozdyk, a win that underscored his punching power and ring IQ. His résumé also includes a bout against Artur Beterbiev—one of the division’s most feared champions—and a knockout of former title challenger Sullivan Barrera. These achievements have cemented Kalajdzic’s reputation as a high‑caliber opponent capable of ending fights with a single blow.
Speaking to Sky Sports ahead of the event, Richards emphasized the importance of delivering a statement performance against such a decorated adversary. “If I can step into the ring and dominate Kalajdzic, it will put my name back in the conversation for a world title, without a doubt,” he said. “I’m focused, I’m prepared, and I’m ready to get the job done.
I want that world championship belt.” Richards’ ambition is rooted in his previous experience at the highest level of the sport. In 2021, he challenged Dmitry Bivol for the WBA light‑heavyweight crown.
Although he ultimately lost via a unanimous decision, the judges’ scores reflected a closer contest than many had anticipated. Bivol, who later solidified his dominance by defeating Artur Beterbiev, remains the benchmark for excellence in the division. Richards’ goal is to return to that elite tier and once again be counted among the world’s best.
The London‑born fighter also reflected on his personal journey and the sacrifices he has made throughout his career. “My story isn’t finished yet,” he declared.
“I didn’t endure all the hardships, the training, and the sacrifices just to fall short of my dream of becoming a world champion. I believe my hard work deserves to be rewarded, and that reward is the title.” Richards highlighted the significance of fighting in front of a home crowd, noting that the atmosphere at the Copper Box Arena could provide an extra boost.
“Having a co‑main‑event in front of my own supporters is the perfect way to start this chapter,” he added. “If I execute my game plan on the night, the next steps will follow naturally.” Kalajdzic, for his part, is expected to bring his aggressive style and knockout power to the bout.
His recent performance against Gvozdyk showcased a blend of speed, precision, and the ability to finish fights early. Analysts predict that the fight could hinge on who imposes their will first—whether Richards can neutralize Kalajdzic’s power with disciplined boxing and body work, or whether Kalajdzic can catch Richards with a decisive blow.
The broader context of the event adds further intrigue. The main card featuring Johnny Fisher versus Michael Pirotton has already generated buzz, but the co‑main‑event offers a narrative of redemption and ambition. Richards’ quest to re‑enter the world‑title conversation dovetails with Kalajdzic’s ascent, creating a compelling storyline for fans and commentators alike.
Fans planning to watch the fight are advised to use a Chrome browser for optimal video playback, ensuring they can experience the action without technical interruptions. The broadcast will feature pre‑fight analysis, post‑fight interviews, and expert commentary, providing a comprehensive viewing experience.
In summary, Craig Richards is approaching his September 26 showdown with a clear purpose: to prove that he still belongs among the elite of the light‑heavyweight division. By defeating a high‑profile opponent like Radivoje Kalajdzic, he hopes to secure his place in future world‑title discussions and move one step closer to achieving the ultimate goal of becoming a champion. The fight promises to be a high‑stakes encounter, with both athletes eager to showcase their skills on a prominent stage, and it will undoubtedly be a highlight of the Sky Sports lineup. Viewers can tune in to Sky Sports on the scheduled date to watch Craig Richards versus Radivoje Kalajdzic live, witnessing a potential turning point in Richards’ career and a defining moment for Kalajdzic’s rising trajectory.