Viddal Riley Sends Strong Message to IBF After Defending European Cruiserweight Title, Celebrates Win With KSI

Viddal Riley defends his European Cruiserweight title© X/@OnTheRecordBox

Viddal Riley has made it clear that he is not interested in waiting around for his world title opportunity. The British cruiserweight continued his impressive run by successfully defending his European title against French challenger Seydi Coupe. Riley entered the contest knowing that a victory could strengthen his position in the IBF rankings, where he currently sits at No. 2. Instead of remaining inactive while waiting for a vacant world title opportunity, the Londoner chose to stay busy, and now his latest performance has put the boxing world on notice.

Viddal Riley Dominates Seydi Coupe to Retain European Cruiserweight Title

Viddal Riley entered the contest looking to defend the European Boxing Union (EBU) cruiserweight championship he captured against Mateusz Masternak in April. Coupe travelled from France hoping to produce an upset, but the challenger struggled to deal with the British boxer's movement, timing and sharp combinations.

The 29-year-old started confidently, using his trademark jab while constantly moving around the ring. He remained difficult to hit, mixing his attacks with clever footwork and defensive movements. But Coupe managed to create a dangerous moment in the third round when he landed a powerful left hook that appeared to rock Riley.

It was potentially the first time in Riley's professional career that he had been visibly troubled. The Londoner responded by becoming more cautious, relying on his jab and movement rather than taking unnecessary risks. He also targeted Coupe's body whenever an opening presented itself.

The fight became considerably more competitive in the eighth round. Riley decided to increase the pressure and exchanged some heavy shots with his opponent.

Riley eventually returned to his usual approach and comfortably managed the remaining rounds. The judges awarded him a unanimous decision, with scores of 116-112, 117-111 and 119-109.

After the victory, Riley celebrated with a Tottenham Hotspur scarf around his neck and his championship belt around his waist. KSI, who promotes him, was also present during the celebrations.

Speaking after the fight, Riley explained what the successful defence meant to him.

“I feel good to defend the belt. Winning a championship, then defending a championship, that means you're a true champion. So tonight I became a true European champion. And it was a dominant display from you there. Seydi, you've got long arms man!”, he said.

Kalle Sauerland Threatens Legal Action Against IBF Over Riley's World Title Shot

Despite defending his European championship, Riley's immediate focus remains on securing a world title opportunity. The British boxer is currently ranked No. 2 in the IBF cruiserweight rankings and believes he is well-positioned to challenge for the vacant championship.

His promoter, Kalle Sauerland, has been particularly vocal about the IBF's decision not to make Riley a mandatory challenger for the world title.

Sauerland believes the contest against Coupe should have been a world championship fight. He also made it clear that his team is prepared to take legal action against the governing body to challenge its decision.