Who is Richard Riakporhe? A star in the making who secured brutal KO victory last night
Richard Riakporhe produced one of the most eye-catching performances on the Chris Eubank Jr vs Conor Benn II undercard, stopping Tommy Welch in devastating fashion. In the second round, Riakporhe unleashed a perfectly timed right hand that sent Welch crashing to the canvas. Two more knockdowns followed before the referee stepped in, sealing a dominant finish that reminded fans why he is considered one of Britain’s most dangerous cruiserweights.
Riakporhe’s journey and rise through adversity
Riakporhe’s story is one shaped by resilience and transformation. Born on 5 January 1990 in London to Nigerian parents, he grew up on the Aylesbury Estate in Walworth, an area known for its tough surroundings. At just 15, he survived a life-threatening stabbing that required emergency surgery, leaving him with a permanent scar and a new sense of purpose. Determined to rebuild his life, he focused on education and later earned a degree in Marketing Communications and Advertising from Kingston University.
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He found boxing at 19 when he joined the Lynn ABC gym. Despite starting later than most fighters, his dedication, athleticism and natural power helped him progress quickly. Turning professional in 2016, he went on to capture the British cruiserweight title and built a reputation for his disciplined style and fight-ending punching power. He has sharpened his skills by sparring with top fighters including Anthony Joshua and Chris Eubank Jr.
His win over Tommy Welch showcased everything that defines him. After a composed opening, he detonated a huge overhand right that changed the fight instantly. Welch never recovered as Riakporhe dropped him repeatedly before the referee stopped the contest.
Outside the ring, he remains committed to giving back. His foundation focuses on steering young people away from knife crime, using his own experiences as a message of hope. He has also expressed ambitions to move up to heavyweight in the coming years, believing his strength and style can carry him into a new division.
With his powerful backstory, explosive ability and growing list of victories, Richard Riakporhe continues to emerge as one of British boxing’s most promising stars, and last night’s brutal knockout was another strong reminder of his potential.
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