Ritson’s bid to take lightweight title promises to be a real Belter
FOREST HALL’s hot prospect Lewis Ritson will be gunning to break into the big time at the Manchester Arena on October 7.
Ritson, nicknamed the Sandman, will challenge Robbie Barrett for his British lightweight title on the undercard of the all-British clash between Anthony Crolla and Ricky Burns live on Sky Sports.
Team GB Rio Olympian welterweight Josh Kelly from Sunderland will also feature as he moves up the British rankings.
Ritson, 23, has won all his 12 pro bouts, six by knock out, to earn his deserved opportunity as the mandatory challenger to Barrett.
His former trainer in Glasgow Billy Nelson believes the Newcastle lad will take it.
He said: “It will be a great clash of styles but Ritson is massive for the weight and if he gets past Barrett’s southpaw style will win with ease. Lewis is what I call a rash of a fighter - all over you and clever with it.”
Ritson , who will have great support from his old club Forest Hall ABC, said: “The fight is for the Lonsdale Belt which is one of the most prestigious in boxing.
“I am ready for it and I am confident.”
After starring as an amateur under his dad David, Ritson moved to Scotland to launch his pro career with Billy Nelson but is now back operating from the North East as part of the Phil Jeffries stable.
Barrett snatched the British strap from the previously unbeaten Scott Cardle with a barnstorming points win in Glasgow earlier this year.
The Yorkshireman was put down twice in the first half of the fight but fought back to go the 12 rounds for the first time and take the majority decision.