3-Time World Champion and former RSR Feature Writer, Jose Antonio Rivera, 39-6-1, 24 KO?s, just informed RSR that his comeback will become official as he steps into the ring on April 9th at the Worcester Palladium in Worcester, Massachusetts.
The opponent is yet to be determined, but this will be the first time that Jose will have stepped into the ring against an opponent in front of a live crowd since his August 2008 victory over journeyman, Clarence Taylor.
The career of Rivera has had ups and downs and with his focus in tact and his determination stronger than ever, he gives the sport one more go at the age of 37.
When Rivera officially retired in 2008, there was a gap left in the sport in Worcester, where his performances would draw in the masses. I was on hand to watch the packed houses at the DCU Center roar with excitement as Rivera went to war with Luis Collazo and, later, Alejandro Garcia. Since his departure, the city has not had another fighter take his place and now, in 2011, he returns, as most former champions do.
The light middleweight division is packed with talent and the odds may be stacked against ?El Gallo,? but with his fighting heart and dedication, I would not count him out. The long road back begins where Jose is most comfortable, and rest assured, this comeback fight is not something that you want to miss.
