Richard Riakporhe has publicly extended an invitation to fellow contender Johnny Fisher, proposing a showdown for the British heavyweight crown. However, Fisher’s immediate priority is to dispatch Michael Pirotton, the opponent slated to share the main event with the "Romford Bull" at London’s Copper Box Arena on Saturday night, a fight that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
Riakporhe, who previously challenged for a world title at cruiserweight, made the leap to heavyweight last year and has since made a striking impression on the division. His most recent performance was a masterclass against Jeamie TKV, whom he stopped decisively in the fifth round to capture the British heavyweight championship. The London-born fighter now has his sights set on a future world title opportunity, but he is also eager to defend his newly won national belt against Fisher. "It would be great," Riakporhe told Sky Sports.
"I like Fisher. After my last fight I actually offered them the chance to step up if they wanted." He continued, "Why not give them the opportunity?
He’s respectful, likeable, and a big puncher himself – a strong guy, like an ox. It would be a treat for the fans to see us face each other." Riakporhe acknowledges his reputation as a dangerous competitor, currently ranked among the top ten heavyweights worldwide. Yet he remains humble about his position, adding, "I’m also a fan of Johnny Fisher and the Bosh family.
I’ll be watching and cheering him on this weekend." The boxer sees himself destined for the upper echelons of the heavyweight division. "I have my own plans and I see myself competing at a higher level as well. But who knows? I’m always in the game to make a living and to fight the guys who want the fight.
It’s all about giving the fans what they want," he explained. He emphasized the importance of fan satisfaction: "When you give the audience value for their money and deliver the action they crave, you stay in their good books.
They deserve to be entertained." Looking ahead, Riakporhe’s ultimate ambition is to square off against one of the reigning heavyweight champions. "I want one of those titles. I’m watching the Fabio Wardley versus Daniel Dubois matchup, I’m following what Agit Kabayel is doing, and I’m keeping an eye on Filip Hrgovic. Those are the fights that motivate me.
I’m training to compete for a world belt. My eyes are locked on whatever will propel me toward that goal," he said. He added confidence in his own abilities: "I know who I am, I know what I’m capable of.
I just focus on getting the job done. I’m arguably one of the heaviest hitters in the world – that’s a fact." The upcoming bout between Johnny Fisher and Michael Pirotton will be streamed live on Sky Sports, offering fans a glimpse of Fisher’s form ahead of any potential clash with Riakporhe. If Fisher emerges victorious, a British heavyweight title clash with Riakporhe could be on the horizon, setting the stage for a high‑octane encounter between two powerful, fan‑friendly heavyweights.
Both fighters have expressed respect for each other’s skill sets and have indicated that a future meeting would be a win‑win for the sport and its supporters. Riakporhe’s invitation underscores his willingness to test himself against rising talent, while Fisher’s upcoming fight serves as a litmus test for his readiness to step onto the national stage. In summary, Riakporhe’s offer to Fisher is more than a casual suggestion; it is a strategic move that could shape the British heavyweight landscape.
With both men eager to prove themselves, the potential showdown promises excitement, power, and a showcase of the kind of knockout‑filled action that heavy‑weight fans crave. The next few weeks will determine whether this bout materialises, but the anticipation alone has already generated buzz across the UK boxing community.