Bermondsey’s Chris Kongo continued on his “learning curve” as he won his fourteenth fight out of fifteen with a unanimous points victory over Germany’s Sebastian Formella at Wembley Arena last weekend.
Kongo, 29, claimed the WBC international silver welterweight belt after a decision of 97-93, 97-94 and 98-92 on the judges’ scorecards over ten rounds.
“There was a lot of pressure and I wanted to get him out, but remember this is my fifteenth fight,” Kongo said. “I did a lot of good stuff, but I made mistakes. This is a learning curve for me.
“To be honest, I think I started too fast and then thought, hold on, I need to slow down’. At the end of the day I got the win so I’m happy.
“Whoever wants it I’m here. I’m going to keep doing what I’m doing and keep moving forward. This is Chris Kongo’s time.”
There was another Southwark success as Walworth cruiserweight Richard Riakporhe edged closer to realising his dream of a world title fight with a spectacular victory over Fabio Turchi in an IBF eliminator.
Riakporhe, 32, moved his unbeaten record to 15-0 with a stoppage in the second round.
Riakporhe had Turchi doubled over after vicious left hook to the body. Turchi’s trainer entered the ring to end the bout.
It is the second fight in a row that Riakporhe has won with a body shot.
“I feel great, I didn’t have much time to get into it,” Riakporhe said.
“I landed a good shot and I’m building up the reputation that I’m now the body snatcher. Call me the body snatcher now.
“There were some points I was trying to target, my coaches are amazing. We had a game-plan, keep it long but look for the opportunity and when you can punish, do it and that’s exactly what I did.
“I keep telling everyone, I’m the fighter. I’ve had four fights in nine months and want to go out again [later this year]. We’re taking over, all these champions are running scared.”
Riakporhe could have several options later in 2022. They currently include IBF holder, the Latvian Mairis Briedis, WBC champion Ilunga Makabu from DR Congo, and France’s WBA ‘super’ champion Arsen Goulamirian.
Riakporhe also wants a bout with fellow Briton, Lawrence Okolie.
“Every single champion, I’ve had enough, I want to fight them all,” Riakporhe continued. “I have power in both hands. My technique was a mess before, now I’ve worked with [his trainer] Angel Fernandez and worked it out.
“That’s why you see me knock people out with my left hand and I didn’t use my right. It’s serious business, we’re not playing anymore.
“Angel Fernandez has spoken to me and analysed my mindset. He said to get to the next level you need to change, that’s why you see me getting rid of people earlier.”
Promoter Ben Shalom, of BOXXER, is aiming for a world title shot for Riakporhe.
“He was my first signing and every time he won, people were making an excuse. He has just stopped a guy inside three rounds. He’s an incredible specimen and that was his left hand,” Shalom said.
“No-one wants to get in the ring with Richard Riakporhe. I was asked who is the biggest puncher I’ve seen and I said Richard and they laughed.
“We have a superstar. We want to see him develop in the right way and I’m so happy for him. People need to put some respect on him.
“I think he can fight for a world title this year. Richard Riakporhe will be a world champion.”