Riakporhe and Ajagba position themselves for Johnny Fisher fight

Johnny Fisher has already been linked with bigger-name opponents such as Dillian Whyte and Deontay Wilder, but two other heavyweights have now publicly placed themselves in the frame for a future fight.

Fisher returns on Saturday night at London’s Copper Box Arena, where he is due to face Michael Pirotton. Ahead of that bout, Richard Riakporhe has offered him a shot at the British heavyweight title, while fellow Zuffa Boxing heavyweight Efe Ajagba has cast doubt on whether Fisher would be willing to face him at all.

Riakporhe, who moved up from cruiserweight and stopped Jeamie TKV in five rounds to win the British title, said he would welcome a defence against Fisher if the Romford heavyweight comes through this weekend.

“It would be good,” Riakporhe told Sky Sports. “I like Fisher. I remember after my match I actually offered them the opportunity to fight if they want.

“Why not give them the opportunity? Very respectful, likeable, and he’s a big puncher himself as well and a strong guy, like an ox. So it would be good for the fans to see.”

Riakporhe added that he sees himself operating at a higher level in the long term, but said he remains open to fights that provide value to the public and help move him forward.

Ajagba’s comments were more dismissive. The Nigerian, who is also signed to Zuffa Boxing, said he has struggled to secure meaningful heavyweight opposition since stopping Charles Martin in February and does not expect Fisher to volunteer.

“Johnny Fisher won’t take the chance to fight,” Ajagba told The Ring. “I busted his nose before in sparring in the second round, and he quit and never showed up again.

“I don’t think he would take the chance to fight me. He couldn’t take my pressure in sparring. How is he going to want to take it in a real fight?”

The remarks come at an interesting moment for Fisher, who has recently spoken about the possibility of facing older, more established names. He said this week that there was a “good chance” Dillian Whyte could be next and acknowledged the attraction of a showdown with former WBC heavyweight champion Wilder, while stressing his respect for both men.

Riakporhe and Ajagba represent different alternatives. Riakporhe offers Fisher a route to the British title and a major domestic fight, while Ajagba would provide an all-Zuffa matchup against an established world-level contender.

Any discussion about Fisher’s next opponent, however, still depends on him taking care of business against Pirotton on Saturday. If he does, he may not be short of options.