Star Boxing proudly announced that light heavyweight Richie "Popeye" Rivera (27-2, 20 KOs) will take on British star Ben "The Surgeon" Whittaker (11-0-1, 8 KOs) on Saturday, June 27th at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The showdown will take place as part of the show headlined by Jaron Ennis vs. Xander Zayas, placing Rivera in a matchup that could have major implications in the 175-pound division. Known for his toughness, multi-faceted style and charisma, Rivera has is a colorful character as well as an exciting boxer. The Hartford, Connecticut native now gets an opportunity against one of boxing’s most talked-about young talents in Whittaker. Rivera will be in his biggest fight since a split decision loss against multi-divisional champ Badou Jack in Saudi Arabia (on the undercard of the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua in August 2022).
Whittaker enters the bout with growing momentum after a spectacular first-round knockout over Brian Suarez. The Olympic silver medalist has drawn attention worldwide with his speed, confidence, and showmanship, but Rivera plans to bring a level of pressure, determination and expierence unlike anything Whittaker has faced as a professional. “I am really excited to make my American debut in the Big Apple on such a big card,” said Whittaker. "I’ve got a lot of love for the American fans, and we’ve developed a great relationship over recent years, so I can’t wait to get out there and put on a spectacular performance for them.”
“The British are coming, the British are coming! If Ben Whittaker thinks he is coming into my backyard to make a statement, history will repeat itself" said Rivera. “I won't need a can of spinach for this fight. Ben Whittaker might have the boxing world fooled, but I'm not convinced" added "Popeye" referencing the vegetable associated with his cartoon namesake.
"Richie Rivera has stepped up to the plate and delivered before, and we look forward to seeing him perform on the big stage again,” said Joe DeGuardia, president of Star Boxing. “We’re happy to give him this opportunity, and Richie has made it clear he’ll bring his very best on fight night."
