Rivera, 27-2 (20 KOs), is perhaps best known for losing a 10-round split decision to Badou Jack in the summer of 2022. The 35-year-old, known as “Popeye The Sailor Man”, hasn’t otherwise mixed in world class circles and will be a heavy underdog in a bout designed as a showcase for the promising Whittaker, 11-0-1 (8 KOs). Rivera last fought in January 2025, knocking out Roger Guerrero in two rounds.
