Riakporhe targets Wardley-Dubois winner for WBO shot

Riakporhe, who recently secured the British heavyweight title with a win over Jeamie Tshikva, is already positioning himself for that next step. The former cruiserweight title challenger has made it clear he wants to be a part of that conversation.

• “I would love to right my wrongs,” Riakporhe said on the Toe2Toe Podcast. “I tried to compete for the world title at cruiserweight, I couldn’t get the decision I wanted, and I just know that I can do it. I just need another shot at the title.”

The 35-year-old views his ascension as a direct path back to a fight rather than a rebuild, linking his current run with unfinished business from his previous title bid.

“I need to get the world title so I’m like, ‘I did everything I had to do, in boxing,'” he said. “I know it’s going to come soon. I’m taking the right steps, I’m improving, I’m performing better. So it’s just a matter of time for me, wherever the shot comes from.”

Riakporhe also pointed to the current strength of the local scene, indicating his preference for big British fights rather than waiting for international options.

“I’m just letting people know that I’m here and these are the fights I want to be involved in, the biggest fights, also against British fighters,” said Riakporhe. “Everybody in Britain is pretty much at the top of the list when it comes to heavyweight boxing. Just know that I’ve put my name out there now, as a proper contender, and a very dangerous one at that.”

Wardley and Dubois are expected to meet in Manchester on May 9, with the result likely to determine the next batch of challengers surrounding the WBO title.