“Two years ago Richie called for this fight on social media,” confirms Joe DeGuardia
Star Boxing have confirmed their undefeated, Hartford, Connecticut product, RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (21-0 16KO’s) will look to cement his name on one of the biggest stages in boxing come August 20th in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia when he takes on former two-time world champion “THE RIPPER” BADOU JACK (26-3-3 16KO’s) on the Joshua-Usyk 2 undercard. The mega night of fights will take place at the King Abdullah Sports City. The start time for the card will be announced soon.
At 31 years old, Rivera has become well known in the New England area for his charismatic personality, boxing ability and his “Popeye” persona that he has carried with him since his pro debut back in 2017. As a pro, Rivera has secured a slew of titles that include the ABO Americas, UBF All America, and ABF Continental Titles. Rivera is currently riding a four-fight knockout streak and believes that he has the power and youth to take down Jack.
Badou Jack will be highest profile and toughest fight in Rivera’s career, but it is not an opportunity that “Popeye” is shying away from, “I am super excited for this fight!” said Rivera. “I can’t wait to showcase my talent! I wanted this fight for a few years now, so I am extremely grateful (that Star Boxing) as gotten me this opportunity!!! It’s time for a veteran Badou Jack to pass down the torch.”
Jack won the WBC World Super Middleweight Title, the first of his two world championships, in 2015 against Anthony Dirrell. Jack successfully defended this title twice, against George Groves and Lucian Bute. Jack attempted to unify the division, but his unification attempt was a majority draw with James DeGale with both champs keeping their titles. Jack then heading up to the light heavyweight division. In his first bout at 175 lbs., Jack defeated Nathan Cleverly for the WBA World Light Heavyweight Title, earning his second world championship, this time in a second division. Jack is currently on a four-fight win streak and a three-fight knockout streak.
Star Boxing CEO JOE DEGUARDIA had this to say about the fight, “Richie draws people in with his infectious personality and “Popeye” persona. Two years ago Richie called for this fight on social media, and I am very happy to be able to bring him this potentially life changing opportunity on one of the biggest boxing cards of the year.”
Rivera will eagerly take the long flight to Saudi Arabia with a major upset on his mind, and while Badou Jack goes by “The Ripper,” Popeye will only see Bluto across the ring come August 20.
The Badou Jack-Richard Rivera fight is promoted by Badou Jack Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing.
