(May 1st) Star Boxing proudly announces that rising light heavyweight contender Richie "Popeye" Rivera (27-2, 20 KOs) will take on unbeaten British star Ben "The Surgeon" Whittaker (11-0-1, 8 KOs) on Saturday, June 27 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York for the WBC Silver Light heavyweight Championship.

The appealing showdown will take place as part of a blockbuster night of boxing headlined by Jaron Ennis vs. Xander Zayas, placing Rivera on one of the sport’s biggest stages in a matchup that could have major implications in the light heavyweight division.

Known for his toughness, multi-faceted style, and fan-friendly charisma, Rivera has built a reputation as one of the most colorful characters and exciting fighters in the division. The Hartford native now gets the opportunity to make the biggest statement of his career against one of boxing’s most talked-about young talents in Whittaker. Rivera will be in his biggest fight since a disputed split decision loss against multi-divisional world champ Badou Jack in Saudi Arabia on the undercard of the World Heavyweight unification 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 in his most recent appearance further cementing his reputation as one of boxing’s most electrifying young talents. 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 experience 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 spinach tied to his nickname.

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

With two undefeated stars headlining the card and a compelling U.S. vs. U.K. showdown between Rivera and Whittaker added to the lineup, June 27 at Barclays Center is shaping up to be one of the summer’s biggest nights in boxing.

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