Lewis Ritson says the European title is the next logical step after the Geodie hero signed a new five-fight contract with Matchroom.
The deal was announced by Matchroom supremo, Eddie Hearn, following talks with Ritson and his team, manager Phil Jeffries, coach and dad, Davy, and fellow coach, Neil Fannan.
Ritson clinched the Lonsdale Belt for good at the weekend in Newcastle with a first-round thumping of mandatory challenger, Paul Hyland Jnr, in the third defence of his British Lightweight title.
A clash with EBU lightweight champion, Edis Tatli, looks in the pipeline for the Metro Radio Arena in October.
“The European title is the logical next step,” said the 24-year-old.
“I’d like to prove to myself I can win that which is a move up and there’s some talk of a fight in America before the close of the year but that’s all up to Eddie and the team to lock down and for me to keep doing what I do best.”
‘The Sandman’ initially signed with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom after ripping the British lightweight title from Robbie Barrett in seven rounds in Manchester last October.
Two ultra-rapid defences followed, putting Joe Murray away in the opening round in Manchester in February then ending Scotty Cardle’s attempts to regain his old title in a two-round shootout at the O2 Arena.
“I’m delighted to extend my deal with Matchroom,” said Ritson.
“It’s been a rapid rise but one that I have enjoyed fighting on the big stage live on Sky Sports.
“We’re going to keep busy and I can’t wait to see where we go from here.
“But I can’t get complacent I need to keep focused and keep winning.
“Since the Barrett fight we have fought everyone Eddie has presented to us no problem, I’m a fighter at the end of the day and have no problem jumping in there with anyone my team believe I’m ready for.
“The atmosphere in Newcastle was unreal. I had a little moment before the bell went to soak it all up.
“The plan is to return there in October and I hope we can continue to build.”
Three magic words to a black and white nut have already been mentioned – St James’ Park – but Ritson says a super fight at Newcastle United’s stadium will come in time.
“There’s no pressure on me to talk about St James’ Park,” said the Forest Hall favourite.
“It’s an aspiration and something to aim towards – A year ago I was a massive underdog to win the British so let’s roll the dice and see where we end up.
“It’s been a fantastic year, everything is improving not just in the ring but in my home life as well as a result.”
Hearn admits he has been staggered by what Lewis has done and how the region backed him at a packed Metro Radio Arena on Saturday night.
“I’ve been completely blown away with what Lewis has done over the past eight months and last Saturday in Newcastle was epic,” said Eddie.
“I think he is one of the most exciting fighters in World boxing right now and has a huge future in the sport.
“We are looking forward to working with Phil, Dave, Neil and the team in guiding him at the right pace to major titles. I really believe the sky is the limit for Lewis Ritson.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jennifer Charlton
