Lawrence Okolie is set to face Richard Riakporhe on April 5, entering the bout as the WBC’s top-ranked heavyweight contender.
The Londoner, standing tall at 6ft 5ins and holding the WBC Silver belt, transitioned from bridgerweight to heavyweight impressively on December 7, securing a first-round victory over Hussein Muhamed. This debut with Queensberry Promotions followed another swift knockout seven months prior in Poland against Lukasz Rozanski, where he claimed the WBC bridgerweight title.
With two consecutive wins and guidance from his new trainer Joe Gallagher, Okolie, boasting a record of 21-1 (16 KOs), exudes confidence. Known for his formidable power, he now aims to dominate and finish his opponents decisively in every fight.
Okolie has climbed two spots from his previous ranking, now occupying the coveted number one position. This significantly enhances his prospects for a future world title opportunity. Current champion Oleksandr Usyk’s plans remain uncertain, though discussions have included a potential rematch with IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois, which could grant Usyk a chance to become a two-time undisputed champion.
Further positive news for British boxing includes Anthony Joshua, a former unified champion, and rising talent Fabio Wardley, who are ranked second and third respectively in the WBC heavyweight rankings, following Okolie.
On April 5, Okolie will clash with Richard Riakporhe, a former cruiserweight rival, in a highly anticipated domestic match at the Co-Op Live Arena in Manchester. Tensions flared between the two at the UK premiere of Creed III in February 2023, nearly resulting in a physical confrontation. Anthony Joshua is confirmed to fight again, according to promoter Eddie Hearn, but his opponent is yet to be announced. Fabio Wardley, meanwhile, has recently been designated as the WBA’s mandatory challenger for their Regular heavyweight title, currently held by veteran Kubrat Pulev.
In other WBC rankings updates, Artur Beterbiev has become the leading contender in the light heavyweight division. The former undisputed champion at 175lbs is considering a trilogy fight with the new champion, Dmitry Bivol.
