A classic power vs. experience showdown is set to steal the spotlight in Hartford this weekend.
On Saturday, April 18, unbeaten knockout artist Slawomir Bohdziewicz (7-0, 6 KOs) collides with seasoned veteran Jose Carlos Rivera (9-4-1, 5 KOs) in a light heavyweight clash on the undercard of The Riverside Rumble at the Connecticut Convention Center.
Rising KO artist looks to make another statement
Bohdziewicz has quickly built a reputation as one of the region’s most dangerous punchers.
The 6’2” Stamford-based prospect has stopped six of his seven opponents, combining disciplined pressure with fight-ending power. Riding a streak of three straight stoppages, he enters April 18 aiming to continue his climb in the light heavyweight division.
“Training camp was solid,” said Bohdziewicz. “I trained at Heavy Hitting Boxing and Fitness and at the Ortiz Boxing Gym in Bridgeport where Jacob ‘Lefty’ Marrero trains. Sparring went really well and the preparation has been very positive.”
Rivera brings experience, durability, and momentum
Standing across the ring is a very different challenge.
Manchester’s Jose Rivera, known as “Rated R,” enters on a strong run—going 3-0-1 in his last four fights. A southpaw with experience across boxing, MMA, and kickboxing, Rivera thrives on disrupting rhythm and forcing uncomfortable exchanges.
“Jose is a very experienced fighter,” Bohdziewicz added. “He has 14 professional boxing fights, and he’s also had many MMA and kickboxing bouts. His last fight was 3 months ago, so he’s been active.”
Clash of styles: Power vs. craft
This matchup brings a compelling contrast:
- Bohdziewicz → size, pressure, knockout power
- Rivera → movement, timing, ring IQ
Rivera may give up height and reach, but his awkward angles and southpaw stance could neutralize Bohdziewicz’s offense if he controls the tempo.
A true crossroads fight
On paper, this is the kind of fight that defines careers.
- For Bohdziewicz: a chance to prove he can break down a durable, experienced opponent
- For Rivera: an opportunity to derail an unbeaten prospect and reassert himself
“The ring will verify everything,” Bohdziewicz said.
Event details
“The Riverside Rumble” also features the Jimmy Burchfield Classic Invitational amateur showcase, kicking off earlier in the evening.
With local pride, contrasting styles, and rising stakes, this Connecticut clash has all the ingredients for an explosive night.
Roberto Villa is the CEO, Founder, Executive Writer, and Senior Editor of FightBook MMA. Has a passion for Combat Sports and is also a podcast host for Sitting Ringside. He’s also a former MMA fighter and Kickboxer. He’s also the main photographer for the 4CornersMafia Car Club.
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