Ritson’s return key for region

It ain’t about how hard you hit, but about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward. North East boxing’s very own Rocky Balboa – Lewis Ritson – should take a leaf out of the book of the world-famous pugilistic movie star.

His defeat to Francesco Patera for the European title last time out hit like a thunderbolt through the boxing world.

Many thought Ritson would blow the game, skilled Italian out the water on home turf, it turned into a nightmare night for the Geordie, who was comfortably beaten.

Was it a step too far, too early? Probably.

Did we all get a bit carried away by Ritson’s progress? Undoubtedly.

But will Ritson rise again and at what level? That is up to the fighter.

It was fantastic to see Ritson himself announce his ring return, after a much deserved rest. He will fight on March 23 at Newcastle’s Metro Radio Arena. His opponent on the night will be Andy Townend, in an intriguing contest back down at domestic level.

Maybe Ritson has to take a step back, to take two forward. And that’s where the Rocky reference comes in.

We will find out a lot about the man, the fighter and his desire to make his name on the world lightweight scene in 2019.

Ritson has to take the Patera loss as a positive. Learn and grow from that contest. He has to decide whether the weight is the class for him, with him seeming to have a little trouble making lightweight in his last couple of bouts.

What I am certain of, is that Ritson has the ability to come back with a bang – he definitely has the fanbase and the pulling power. Eddie Hearn knows that all too well.

I sincerely hope Ritson does take a step in the right direction over the next 12 months, not just for him, but for the good of the sport in the region.

Ritson, an unassuming, quite quiet lad from Forest Hall – a working class former pit-serving town in North Tyneside – still remains the jewel in the region’s boxing crown.

He probably does not realise the impact he has had on the sport in the region.

Ritson has shone a light on the North East boxing game.

The region has not seen such a spotlight for more than two decades, since the Glenn McCrorys and Billy Hardys of this world were making their names.

Ritson’s meteoric rise has allowed many other north east boxers, used to their ticket deals and small hall shows, a chance to shine in front of the TV cameras and open themselves up to the wider boxing world.

Whether you’re a fan of Ritson or not, he must take a hell of a lot of credit for improving the lot for himself and other boxers, who would otherwise remain under the radar. I’m back on the Ritson bandwagon and long may it continue.