Lewis Ritson’s boss admits his boxer’s second British title defence has left him in a slightly awkward position.
Phil Jeffries told punch-lines that he likes challenger, Scotty Cardle, and the Lytham fighter’s family.
Jaffa will be ringside a week on Saturday to see his unbeaten 24-year-old put his lightweight belt on the line against the excellent Cardle.
The pair will go to-toe-toe at the O2 in London on the undercard of Dillian Whyte-Lucas Browne battle for the WBC Silver heavyweight championship.
Jeffries said: “I’ve known and liked Scotty for a long time, he and our Tony were team-mates on the national squad.
“He’s a good lad and very good boxer.
“I know Joe well and the Cardles are a really nice family, I’ve got nothing but good things to say about them.
“I know too there is a great deal of respect between Lewis and Scotty, you could see that after Lewis beat Joe Murray.
“I think this is a great 50-50 fight and may the best man win. Obviously I’m hoping it’s my fella!”
Cardle hopes to regain the title he lost in Glasgow last April to Robbie Barrett.
The Lancashire fighter had reigned for almost two years but came unstuck at the SSE Hydro, where he suffered his first pro defeat.
Ritson then went and dethroned Barrett in his maiden defence, setting up this showdown in the capital.
“He’s a deserved British champion,” said Cardle. “But obviously I believe that he’s just holding that belt for me to take it from him.”
Ritson gave a frightening exhibition in his first defence n Manchester last month, when he stopped Murray inside a round.
“Lewis is great,” added Jeffies. “Out of the ring, he’s so nice and laid back he’s close to falling over.
“In the ring he’s a different man!
“Scotty had a bad day in the office at Glasgow and I know he’ll be well up for this, but he also knows this could be his last chance.
“It has the makings of a brilliant fight.”
Words: Roy Kelly Main picture: Lawrence Lustig/ Matchroom
