Riddick Bowe is 43 years old and hasn’t fought since 2008, but the former world champion is planning a comeback for the second time in his career. Citing the weakness in the heavyweight division, Bowe says he wants one tuneup fight before he takes on one of the Klitschko brothers (Vitali and Wladimir), who combine to hold all five world heavyweight titles.
“I’m coming out of retirement and I’m going to shock the world,” Bowe told Larry Brown Sports.
He has his eye on Bert Cooper, a 46-year-old heavyweight who is 38-23, and whom Bowe beat in 1990. After that, he wants his shot at one of the Klitschkos, whom he calls by another name that is formed when you substitute the KL for a B.
Bowe isn’t in complete fighting shape yet, but he doesn’t think it will take him long to get there. He’s been working with a trainer the past six months and says he’s in good shape.
“Give me two or three months, and I’ll be ready,” he says.
Would he be willing to fight Evander Holyfield, who’s still boxing, or even Andrew Golota?
“Absolutely,” he says with confidence. “Show me the money … absolutely. Money makes me feel good.”
If Bowe faces Holyfield, it would be for the fourth time in his career. He’s 2-1 against Evander, suffering the only loss of his career.
As part of his comeback, he’s also doing a documentary on “Fan Man,” the parachutist who flew into the outdoor ring at Caesar’s Palace during the seventh round of his loss to Holyfield. His manager Dan Herman has signed a deal with Pick Six Productions and has worldwide distribution rights through IODA.
Why revisit an incident that took place nearly 20 years ago? “It changed Bowe’s life,” Herman says.
They also plan to examine the conspiracy theory that Holyfield’s camp paid the now deceased James Miller to interrupt the fight.
“If you watch it,” Herman says, “Holyfield was prepared.” He notes that Bowe was caught off guard.
They’re planning to begin production on the documentary in two weeks and they’re shooting for a June 15th release.
