UPDATE FROM SAUDI ARABIA: RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA ENJOYING THE EXPERIENCE AND READY FOR SATURDAY

Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (August 18, 2022) – Undefeated, RICHIE “POPEYE THE SAILOR MAN” RIVERA (E. Hartford, CT, 21-0, 16KO’s) traveled 6,401 miles for the biggest fight opportunity of his life against former two-time world champion BADOU “THE RIPPER” JACK (Las Vegas, NV, 26-3-3 16KO’s) in a 10 round cruiserweight bout this Saturday, August 20th, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Both Badou Jack and Richie Rivera had this to say about their experience and fighting for the first time in Saudi Arabia:

BADOU JACK:

“I want to thank Skill Challenge and Prince Khaled for having me, and the whole Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. I appreciate all the love. I’m excited to finally fight here in Saudi. I’ve fought in Abu Dhabi, and Dubai, but now finally we’re here so I’m excited. I’m here to stay. I feel young, I take care of my body. You’ve got to live a boxer’s life. You can’t just live it when you’re in training camp, it’s a lifestyle – all year round.”

RICHIE RIVERA:

“We have had a great experience so far [in Saudi Arabia]! Learning the language, how they dress and eat – just getting used to the way of life out here. Overall, the people of Saudi Arabia have been incredibly generous and helpful, and we’ve been lucky to meet a lot of kind people. I can’t elaborate enough on how dope this experience has been so far! I am super blessed and ready to fight Saturday.”

Badou Jack vs Richie Rivera is promoted by Badou Jack Promotions and Joe DeGuardia’s Star Boxing and will air live on DAZN Saturday, August 20 starting at 12PM ET.