My name is AJ Rivera, I am the President of Rivera Promotions Entertainment, a professional boxing company, I started with my father in 2017. We throw pro boxing shows in the New England region. Prior to that, I went to Johnson & Wales University for Sports Entertainment & Event Management. I currently also work for the 2021 IFL champions the Massachusetts Pirates.
Please tell us about your current career and what you love most about what you do?
I am a promoter and match maker for professional boxing. I just love the sport, and I love helping fighters achieve their goals and dreams.
What is your favorite restaurant in Worcester, and what is your favorite dish?
Nuestra. For brunch, the breakfast bowl is my favorite and for dinner, the churrasco and mofongo are my favorite.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve ever met?
Tough question, I’ve met a lot of great and interesting people. One of the most impactful though was Carlos Garcia. His life experiences and knowledge made him a great teacher
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
Japan, I love the history and the food. Plus, it looks like a very cool place to travel.
What is your go to band when you can’t decide what to listen to?
I don’t have a band I listen to. My favorite artist is Jay-Z though.
What is your best advice?
Speak what you seek until you see what you said…ignore all naysayers
What is one of the top three items on your Bucket List?
Do a show in Las Vegas
What current/former local business makes you the most nostalgic about Worcester?
Ionic Ave Boys and Girls club
Choosing anyone alive and a non-relative with whom would you love to have lunch? Why?
Jay Z, aside from being my favorite artist, there is a lot I would like to learn from him. The way he has grown and evolved into a entrepreneur would be something I want to learn
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Being one of the top promotional companies in the sport, doing shows all over the country & managing multiple different athletes
What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you, even your friends or family.
I like to read and watch movies/documentaries on Samurais.
What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, comfortable, nice weather
If a motion picture was made of your life, what actor/actress would you choose to play you?
Mark Wahlberg or Miguel Gomez
What is your favorite thing or something unique about Worcester?
I like that it’s constantly trying to grow and evolve.
What is your favorite smell?
The smell of fresh cooked food & the beach
Who inspires you to be better?
My son
