It looks set that Richard Riakporhe (17-0, 13 KOs) will meet Chris Billam-Smith (19-1, 13 KOs) later this year for the Bournemouth native’s WBO strap, which he won last May with victory over Lawrence Okolie. Billam-Smith has recently spoken on the much-anticipated rematch between the two – and now the London-born fighter has had his say and sent a chilling warning to his rival, ahead of their likely rematch. The two met in the summer of 2019 when Riakporhe was victorious by split decision.
Richard Riakporhe Talks Billam-Smith Rematch
Richard Riakporhe Wants Statement Win
Speaking on his opponent’s record and his aim for the rematch, Riakporhe said: “He’s got one loss on the record, on his impressive record.” He continued: “I’m just going to do it again, that’s the plan, I need to double that number, that’s the aim, that’s my goal.”
“What makes it so much better and tantalising is that there’s a world title belt on the line. I have the confidence already because I beat him already. But because this world title’s on the line, I feel like I’m just ready to go to another place.”
Riakporhe Desires Victory
Riakporhe has passed the test of patience on his lengthy journey towards the world title stage, and he appears focused on delivering an unquestionable performance.
“I want to put on a performance that cannot be questioned,” he said. “People are going to know the difference between me and The Gentleman. There’s a big difference. I believe that I’m a level above.”
The London-born fighter addressed his power: “I actually want to knock out every single opponent I face.” He continued: “That’s my gift. I just know how to do it. Check my track record, my last five fights all KOs within the distance and that’s against decent opposition.” Riakporhe added: “I do believe that power is enough to deal with Chris Billam-Smith. My power in particular is enough to deal with him. No matter whether he’s winning rounds or not. I just need to land the correct shot and he’s gone.”
“I’m going for the KO, that’s all I want to do. Chris Billam-Smith has made a big mistake. He’s going to be looking back 20 years from now, regretting taking this fight and I’m going to still be visiting him in his dreams like Freddy Krueger.”
Plan for Billam-Smith Revealed
Revealing his plans for a rematch against the Bournemouth fighter: “I plan to knock him out in the first round, I just believe that I have what it takes,” Riakporhe said.
He continued: “I remember doing talks on Sky Sports, live punditry, and they asked me the same thing and I said yeah I reckon I’ll get him out of there between one to three.”
“I feel like I’ve levelled up again. I said I believe I can do it within three. Now I believe I can do it within one. I feel like I was disrespecting myself when I was saying within three. I don’t need that much time.”
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