Richard Riakporhe eyeing WBC World cruiserweight title in 2022
Undefeated cruiserweight Richard Riakporhe (13-0, 9KOs) could be in line to face Saul ‘Canelo’ Alvarez’s next opponent, Ilunga Junior Makabu, according to his promoter.
Head of BOXXER, Ben Shalom, believes the 31-year-old British fighter could build on his WBC Silver victory this month to face off for a world title next year.
Last Saturday saw him claim the belt, once held by Makabu before he became the World champion, as he knocked out Olanrewaju Durodola in five rounds.
“He is also well ranked with all the governing bodies," Shalom told Sky Sports.
"It could be [Lawrence] Okolie or Mairis Briedis next year. [WBC champion] Ilunga Makabu makes the most sense.
"It's only a matter of time before he gets his shot."
Shalom explained his fighter’s high regard at the WBC, which explains why a fight with Makabu may come to fruition: "Mauricio is really keen on Richard. He has seen how Richard has blasted through the domestic division like nobody else before in so few fights.
"The WBC title fight is there for him."
WBC latest rankings for November 2021
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