WORCESTER – Former professional boxing champion Jose Antonio Rivera announced on Thursday he will run for City Councilor At-Large in Worcester in 2023.
Rivera is a former world champion professional boxer, winning the IBO Welterweight title in 1997, the WBA Welterweight title in 2003, and the WBA Junior Middleweight title in 2006. He retired as a fighter in 2008, but came back to fight twice in 2011, and two more times in 2018 and 2019, respectively. He finished his career with 43 wins, six losses, and a draw.
Rivera is originally from Philadelphia and moved to Worcester at age 16.
According to his LinkedIn profile, Rivera has been Assistant Chief Court Officer with Massachusetts Trial Courts since 2019. Court officers work within the security departments in Massachusetts courts. The security department is responsible for “providing a safe and secure environment for the administration of justice,” according to the Massachusetts website.
Rivera’s profile also says he’s been an independent associate with Usana Health Services since 2019. Usana says it is a ” a U.S.-based international direct-selling company that researches, manufactures, and sells premium, science-based supplements, personal care, and energy products.”
Rivera also says he’s a boxing promoter and motivational speaker.
In a statement announcing his campaign, Rivera provided some information on his policy positions. He said he:
- supports a tax rate that balances the needs of homeowners and businesses and closing the gap between the two rates.;
- will advocate for measures to make streets safe for all;
- supports a fare-free busing system while calling on the WRTA to ensure timely service and avoid elimination of routes;
- supports ensuring everyone has a place to call home and “will challenge caregivers and providers to help empower the unhoused population, including those facing substance abuse, mental health issues and other challenges.”
- supports law enforcement, body-worn cameras, and transparency in all areas of government, including public safety.
- supports efforts to provide modern school building and measures to keep students and teachers safe
Worcester will hold its preliminary election on Sept. 5, and its municipal election on Nov. 7.
