Mobile Home | Desktop Version




Here Comes the Kaboom: Top Ranks Signs Heavyweight Contender Oscar Rivas to Promotional Pact

PhilBoxing.com
Fri, 14 Feb 2020



(Feb. 13, 2020) — Heavyweight contender Oscar “Kaboom” Rivas, the Colombian-born, Canadian-based puncher on the precipice of a world title shot, has inked a multi-fight promotional agreement with Top Rank. Rivas, who is co-promoted by Groupe Yvon Michel, will return on an ESPN platform in 2020.

Rivas (26-1, 18 KOs), ranked No. 3 by the WBC, represented Colombia at the 2008 Beijing Olympics before moving to Montreal to begin his professional career.

“Top Rank is in the heavyweight business, and we are pleased to be partnering with Yvon Michel to help Oscar get to the next level,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “He fits right in the heavyweight picture and has the skills and toughness to compete against anyone in the division.”

Said Michel: “Oscar Rivas is ready to send a strong message, as he has the style to beat any heavyweight on any given day. It is with great enthusiasm that we are confirming this partnership for Oscar with Top Rank.”

“I am very proud and excited to join forces with Top Rank. I thank Top Rank for believing in me,” Rivas said. “I also want to thank my manager, Stéphane Lepine, and my promoter, Yvon Michel, for their leadership and guidance from the beginning of my career.

“I am still a bit bitter over the circumstances surrounding my last fight in London against Dillian Whyte, and I hope that one day we will fight a rematch on an even playing field. As for Dillian, I know he will do all he can to avoid this, but nothing will ever stop me from becoming a world champion. I am ready to take on any challenge.”

Rivas was undefeated when he traveled to Whyte’s home turf last July in a fight for the vacant WBC interim heavyweight world title. Rivas knocked White down in the ninth round but ultimately lost a close unanimous decision. The Whyte defeated put a temporary halt to Rivas’ momentum, as he began his 2019 campaign with a dramatic 12th-round TKO over Bryant Jennings.

Rivas now joins Top Rank’s loaded heavyweight stable, which includes lineal champion Tyson Fury and top contenders Kubrat Pulev, Agit Kabayel, Carlos Takam and Jarrell Miller. As an amateur, Rivas defeated Pulev and former unified heavyweight world champion Andy Ruiz Jr.



Recent PhilBoxing.com In-House articles:

  • Blazen Rocili "The Filipino Giant" Dominates in Statement Victory at "Rumble in the UNE," Improves to 10-0
    Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Oppas to face Lu on April 11 in Australia
    By Lito delos Reyes, Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Ilar, Infiesto to play in Guevarra Chess Cup
    By Lito delos Reyes, Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Pabular to face Kitano on April 13 at Korakuen Hall
    By Lito delos Reyes, Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Five reasons why IBA NOMAD 14 in Almaty is worth watching
    Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Antonio bounces back in Sydney International Open Chess Championship
    By Marlon Bernardino, Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Wise Owl Boxing Signs Rising Los Angeles Prospect Jahvad McDermott
    Fri, 10 Apr 2026
  • Staying active is Magsayo’s priority
    By Joaquin Henson, Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • Abu Bakar ready to rumble against Singh on April 11
    By Lito delos Reyes, Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • Atty. Aldwin Alegre is set to compete in the 23rd Bangkok Chess Club Open 2026 to be held at the Luxurious Sheraton Hua Hin Resort and Spa, Thailand from April 11-19, 2026.
    By Marlon Bernardino, Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • WEIGH IN RESULTS IGLESIAS VS SILYAGIN - TOMORROW NIGHT IN MONTREAL!
    Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • Kristian Prenga Headlines “Crossroads in Brick City” on June 6 in Newark
    Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • Macala, Silva, Lopez to play in 14th Atty. Jong Guevarra Cup
    By Lito delos Reyes, Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • Former World Champion Miguel Berchelt Confirmed for Ninth Annual Box Fan Expo, During Cinco De Mayo Weekend, Saturday May 2, in  Las Vegas
    Thu, 09 Apr 2026
  • Sem Japet Enano Stuns Hometown Favorite Tyrell Adams to Claim IBO Oceania Featherweight Title
    Thu, 09 Apr 2026