After just 14 fights, Viddal Riley is on the cusp of world title opportunities.
Despite many knowing Viddal Riley (14-0, 7ko’s) as an internet sensation in his early days as a professional, the man from North London has showcased his quality as a legitimate world class fighter.
People would’ve understood if Riley went down the influencer route.
But an English, British and now European title later, he’s done it the traditional way.
As co-main event to Wilder-Chisora at the O2 Arena, Viddal shutout the durable Mateusz Masternak (50-7, 33ko’s) to claim the coveted EBU European cruiserweight title.
Claiming this belt leads to a generous ranking with the WBC usually, and the Brit is ranked number two with the IBF.
However, cruiserweight has been a division Zuffa Boxing have targeted in 2026, with landmark signings of Jai Opetaia (30-0, 23ko’s) and Chris Billiam Smith (21-2, 13ko’s).
Opetaia was controversially stripped by the IBF in February due to his ties with Zuffa Boxing, leaving the title vacant.
Could Riley be next in line for the belt?
Speaking to Boxing Scene, Riley has stated: “I wouldn’t take the Opetaia fight next”.
“Because at the end of the day, he made his Zuffa decision”.
“What I grew up watching, what I know and what is prestigious to me, are the belts like the IBF, the WBC, and the WBA”.
“If I’m in a position to go and win one of those belts I dreamed about having as a kid, I’ll always pick that over something new.
“They’d like me back out in September. That is all I know right now. But we’re in a good position. This is actually earned”.
Sine signing a long-term promotional deal with MF Pro, Viddal has stated he’s felt ‘looked after’.
Could Kalle Sauerland, KSI, and co deliver that world title shot next?
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