Las Vegas, NV - The heavyweight division is heating up as two rising titans prepare to collide in a high-stakes showdown. Richard Torrez Jr. and Guido Vianello will face off in a 10-round main event on Saturday, April 5, at the Pearl Concert Theater at Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas, streaming live on ESPN+ in the U.S.

This fight marks a significant step up in class for Torrez (12-0, 11 KOs), the former U.S. Olympic silver medalist, who takes on the battle-tested Vianello (13-2-1, 11 KOs), an Italian Olympian with big power and a wealth of experience.

Promoted by Top Rank, the fight is set to be a major proving ground for both fighters, as they look to cement themselves as legitimate heavyweight contenders.

Bob Arum: "This Has All the Makings of a Heavyweight Classic"

With both fighters boasting knockout power and an aggressive style, Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum believes this fight has the ingredients to be a classic.

“This has all the makings of a heavyweight classic, two athletic big men with power and tremendous determination,” said Arum. “Top Rank has promoted Richard and Guido from the start of their respective professional careers, and I look forward to seeing how the fight unfolds at the Palms Casino Resort.”

For Torrez, the fight represents a chance to continue his rapid rise through the heavyweight ranks. The southpaw volume puncher from Tulare, California, has been on a knockout tear, stopping nearly every opponent he has faced. Last year, he dominated fellow unbeaten Brandon Moore, and after an unusual DQ win over Joey Dawejko, he bounced back in December with a third-round knockout of Issac Munoz.

Torrez: "I’m Ready to Go"

The 24-year-old former amateur standout sees this as a crucial test.

“This is something I've been working toward for a long time,” Torrez said. “I want to prove that I’m the best heavyweight out there and show what American heavyweights are made of. When they offered me Guido, I didn’t hesitate. I’m ready to go.”

Torrez, known for his relentless aggression and high punch output, will be facing his toughest test to date in Vianello.

Vianello: “I Will Show I Am Top Rank’s Best Heavyweight”

The 30-year-old Roman heavyweight, known as “The Gladiator”, enters the fight with momentum after a career-defining 2024. While his early career included a draw against Kingsley Ibeh and a tough loss to Efe Ajagba, he rebounded in spectacular fashion by stopping Moses Johnson in one round and then scoring an upset TKO win over Arslanbek Makhmudov in Canada.

Vianello sees this fight as an opportunity to claim the spotlight in Top Rank’s heavyweight stable.

“I am excited for this fight. After fighting Makhmudov, I showed I was ready for anyone,” Vianello said. “Richard is a talented young fighter, but he has never faced anyone like me. I will show myself to be Top Rank’s best heavyweight and move on to challenge for world titles.”

A High-Stakes Battle with Heavyweight Implications

This fight carries major implications for the future of both men. Torrez has been on a fast track, but Vianello represents his first real test against a battle-hardened contender. Meanwhile, Vianello has an opportunity to prove that his recent wins were not flukes and that he belongs in the top-tier heavyweight conversation.

Both fighters possess knockout power, and their styles guarantee action from the opening bell. Torrez thrives on relentless pressure, while Vianello, standing at 6'6", uses his power and size to break down opponents. If Vianello can keep Torrez at range, he may have an advantage, but if Torrez can close the gap and apply his signature pressure, it could be a long night for the Italian.

Fight Details

📅 Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
📍 Location: Pearl Concert Theater, Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas
📺 Broadcast: Live on ESPN+

With both men looking to take the next step toward heavyweight title contention, expect fireworks when Richard Torrez Jr. and Guido Vianello square off in Las Vegas.