Lawrence Okolie calls for ‘official call-out’ from Richard Riakpure for potential world title clash Boxing News

WBO world cruiserweight champion Lawrence Okoli demanded an “official call-out” from Richard Riakpore, and his London opponent complied.

On Saturday Riakporhe defeated a mutual rival in Krzysztof Glowacki, stopping the pole in four rounds, two rounds faster than Okolie in 2021.

The win leaves Riakpure in a good position to challenge for the world title. Okoli will first have to go through a mandatory defense against David Light but will relish the all-British clash with his fellow Londoner.

“I’m number one,” Okoli said Sky Sports News. “Richard is a person who is not afraid, he is not intimidated. He does not look at me and say: ‘Lawrence is unbeatable’. He believes in himself, in his abilities, in his training.

“But unfortunately I don’t think it will be enough the day me and him fight each other. But that’s my opinion and the only way to find out is to actually get in the ring and make it happen.”

After his win on Saturday night, Riakpure demanded a shot at any world champion. “I believe I’m No. 1. I’ve always believed that deep down. [fighting Okolie] It will be a good chance for me to prove it,” said Riakpura as the two fighters came face to face Sky Sports News on Tuesday.

“As long as business is good, it would be great to get another title. [on the line in the fight] as well as. Because we can fight a great battle of unity.”

Okoli said: “I respect every fighter. I respect his skills. But as soon as someone says they want what you have – your belt, your name, you out. To – As soon as I hear someone call my name, as my track record shows, I’m ready to go.

“Champions should fight champions and then contenders should die to fight champions. That’s the energy I’m on and I’ve been on,” he continued.

“That’s why I’m a level above. I’m able to say: ‘Forget all this other stuff. I just want a smoke’.”

“When I was coming up looking for a world title, my energy was never: ‘Oh, if the price was right, oh, if business was good.’ I just want to fight.

“Don’t say: ‘I’m a fighter if it makes business sense’.”

Okoli demanded: “I want to hear an official call-out from Richard now, if he’s ready for it. Because I didn’t feel like he did the other day. I want to believe him now. So When I’m going to train I’m thinking, ‘When I beat my must, this is what we can do next if none of the other champions want the alliance.’

Riakporhe did not hesitate to accept his offer. “We can make sure of that,” he replied.

“You know me Lawrence. I’m a fighter and that’s what I do. I was born to fight so we can make it happen this year. If you’re up to it, I’m up to it.

“Let’s just do it this year.”