Twelve rounds at The O2 determine Riley’s European standing
Viddal Riley faces Mateusz Masternak for the EBU cruiserweight title on April 4 at The O2 in London. The twelve-round fight moves Riley from domestic level into established European competition.
Riley is 13-0 and technically sound. He fights tall, keeps his right hand home, and starts with the jab before committing to combinations. At domestic level he has dictated range, controlled pace, and kept his feet set before punching. European level demands more work inside and better punch resistance.
“It’s a new dawn. It’s a new chapter. MF PRO is the launch of a new beginning in my career and there’s no better way to enter this stage than with another difficult test,” Riley said.
“I’ve decided to challenge a seasoned veteran and former world title contender for his EBU Cruiserweight title, this is pivotal on the climb into world honours, and I expect a test but one I am more than capable of shining through.”
Masternak is 38, a former world title challenger and two-time European champion. He has shared rounds with Tony Bellew and Chris Billam-Smith. He works behind a compact guard, steps in behind straight shots, and invests in body work early. He does not waste punches and he does not give away position along the ropes.
“I’m really pleased this fight is happening. It’s a tough challenge, and in my opinion he’s a better fighter than Billam-Smith — even better than Bellew. I took this fight because I truly believe he’s the best British cruiserweight out there right now,” Masternak said.
“I’m fully motivated and ready — I’m going there to defend my title and bring my belt back home.”
This is where we learn about Riley’s conditioning and punch resistance. Masternak will step to him, put his forehead on his chest, and make him fight for space. If Riley keeps the jab busy, resets his feet after exchanges, and mixes in body shots of his own, he can keep the fight in open space.
If he allows Masternak to set his feet and apply steady pressure, those middle rounds will get heavy. European title fights are fought in the center and along the ropes, not just at long range.
Riley has looked disciplined and composed so far. April 4 tells us if he can hold his form when the rounds stretch and the pressure does not ease.
Date, Venue, Start Time, TV and Live Streaming
Date: April 4
Start Time: 5:00 p.m. UK / 12:00 p.m. ET
Streaming: DAZN
Venue: The O2, London
Fight card: Dereck Chisora vs. Deontay Wilder; Viddal Riley vs. Mateusz Masternak
Watch live on: DAZN