Ben Whittaker – Richard ‘Popeye’ Rivera on DAZN

Brooklyn, NY (June 27, 2026) Tonight marks another significant evening for Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing as hard-hitting Connecticut light heavyweight Richard “Popeye” Rivera returns to one of boxing’s biggest stages, stepping into the ring at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on a nationally televised DAZN card.

Rivera (27-2, 20 KOs) faces unbeaten British sensation Ben Whittaker, the Olympic silver medalist and one of the sport’s most heavily promoted young stars. Widely regarded as one of boxing’s brightest emerging attractions, Whittaker has been touted as a future superstar, making tonight’s showdown a tremendous opportunity for Rivera to make a statement on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

The appearance continues Star Boxing’s long-standing commitment to developing fighters from regional standouts into competitors on boxing’s biggest stages. Since signing Rivera, Joe DeGuardia and Star Boxing have consistently believed the heavy-handed Connecticut native possessed the talent and determination to compete with the elite of the light heavyweight division.

“This is exactly the kind of opportunity Richie has desired,” said Star Boxing President Joe DeGuardia “In boxing, the biggest rewards come from accepting the biggest challenges. Richie didn’t hesitate when this fight was offered because he believes in himself, and tonight he has the chance to prove to the boxing world that he belongs on this stage.”

Adding to the significance of the evening, DeGuardia and Star Boxing are simultaneously promoting Rockin’ Fights 54 at The Paramount in Huntington, where another capacity crowd is expected for one of Long Island’s premier boxing events. Few promoters can claim to have a featured fighter competing on a major international broadcast while also presenting a successful live professional boxing event of their own on the very same night.

As Rivera pursues the biggest victory of his career under the bright lights of Barclays Center, Star Boxing continues its mission of developing fighters, promoting world-class events, and strengthening boxing throughout New York and the Northeast.

Fans around the world can watch Rivera’s clash with Whittaker live tonight on DAZN Pay-Per-View as part of the Jaron “Boots” Ennis vs. Xander Zayas card from Barclays Center. The event is available in the United States for $74.99 via DAZN PPV, or is included for subscribers to DAZN’s Ultimate plan.

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