Yankiel Rivera might just be Puerto Rican boxing’s next flyweight titleholder, but he’s not rushing to tell you – he’s showing you. With his second homecoming fight in 2024 on Saturday against fellow undefeated fighter Angel Gonzalez, Rivera sees a perfect opportunity to prove he’s ready for a world title shot in 2025.
The 10-round flyweight bout will be featured on the DAZN main card at the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Rivera, 27, has wasted no time making waves in the professional ranks. A 2020 Olympian for Puerto Rico, Rivera has faced increasingly tough opposition, defeating Victor Sandoval, a gritty veteran, and unbeaten prospects Andy Dominguez and Christian Robles in his last three outings. Despite Gonzalez’s edge in professional experience, Rivera’s rapid progression suggests he’s riding a fast-track toward championship contention.
“It’s another big test for me, but my goal is to be world champion,” Rivera, 6-0 (2 KOs), said via translator during Thursday’s press conference. “The idea is to come out victorious on Saturday, and then I want to fight for a world title.”
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn teased Rivera at the press conference, asking if he could ever be in a bad fight. Rivera responded with his usual poise: “It’s another good fight, another good war – which is great news for the fans. I have to beat him to continue toward my goal of becoming world champion.”
For Yankiel Rivera, Saturday’s bout isn’t just about staying undefeated; it’s about building momentum. A win against Gonzalez would mark the third undefeated fighter Rivera has faced in just seven fights, keeping him on what can only be described as the escalator-style path to flyweight gold.
Standing in Rivera’s way is Gonzalez, a 31-year-old Puerto Rican fighter based in Longwood, Florida. With a record of 14-0 (7 KOs), Gonzalez brings more than twice Rivera’s professional experience, including a win over Christian Robles, whom Rivera also defeated. Gonzalez, whose amateur career dates back to 2010, believes he’s ready to spoil Rivera’s plans.
“I’ve been training two to three times a day, and I’m ready for this opportunity,” Gonzalez said. “It’s two Puerto Ricans going head-to-head, and we’re going to give it all for the fans. Let the best man win – and that’s going to be me, because I’ve put in the work.”
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