America’s heavyweight saviour? ‘You’ll remember me!’

Richard Torrez says he wants to be remembered “forever” as a world heavyweight champion as he prepares to start his title pursuit.

The 22-year-old American has signed a promotional deal with Top Rank after returning from this summer’s Olympic Games in Tokyo with a silver medal.

With a professional debut planned in February, Torrez has vowed to earn a reputation as a dominant champion.

“I’m a smaller heavyweight, but I’m very active,” the Californian told Sky Sports. “I have a great engine on me, and what I lack for in size I make up for in power.

“They say you die twice. Once physically and once when the last person says your name, and so I want to live forever.”

Asked if he can win a world title, Torrez said: “I believe so. I believe I have the right foundation. I have the right people behind me, and I have the right mindset too.

“I definitely believe that one day I will be.”

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Britain’s bronze medallist Frazer Clarke did not share the ring with Torrez in Japan, although they could cross paths in the pro ranks.

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British heavyweight Frazer Clarke is also set to join Torrez in the pro ranks

Prior to the Olympics, Torrez had told Sky Sports about his respect for Clarke.

“He’s a great guy, I have been to lots of camps with him, we have had a lot of really great sparring sessions,” he said.

“He’s as good a guy as he is a boxer. He has exceptional skill and he’s a big guy.

“He will be really good competition if we meet up.

“I do study him, I watch film of him – when we spar, I watch the video back.

Torrez produced a dramatic stoppage win over Kamshybek Kunkabayev in the Olympic semi-finals, eventually losing on points against Bakhodir Jalolov in a thrilling final.

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Torrez produced a string of exciting performances at the Olympics

He is now planning to make a big impact at heavyweight as America waits for another champion to be crowned after Deontay Wilder’s reign as WBC champion was ended by Tyson Fury.

“February, we’re hoping to [start],” said Torrez.

“We’re breaking down barriers and we’re stepping through doors. It’s something that I’ve dreamed of, ever since I was a little kid.

“It’s something that I’ve imagined, this day happening, but for it to actually come true and to come to fruition is incredible. I just can’t wait and I hope you guys can’t either.”

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