Lewis Ritson says he feels “unstoppable” and that could spell painful news for Francesco Patera in Newcastle on October 13.
The rivals will meet at the Metro Radio Arena for the vacant European lightweight title on a show featuring a potential British and Commonwealth championship war between Glenn Foot and Robbie Davies Jnr.
For ‘The Sandman’ this is the chance to move up to the next level by taking the EBU title after taking apart every challenger for his British strap.
Ritson clinched the Lonsdale Belt outright by hammering previously unbeaten challenger Paul Hyland Jr at the same Metro Radio Arena in June.
And the 24-year-old is predicting another night of violence when the unbeaten Euro-rated number six hosts the Belgian in his home Toon.
“I’ve dealt with all the top operators at domestic level and now it’s time to announce myself on the European stage,” said Ritson.
“I’m feeling unstoppable right now and I’m ready to take on anyone that gets put in front of me.
“The Metro Radio Arena is my fortress and nobody is beating me in my backyard.
“The noise my fans make inside the arena is incredible, it’s like there’s two of me in the ring!”
Not that Patera is going to be a pushover.
He is the former European champion having dethroned the excellent Edis Tatli in the Finn’s backyard, only to be outpointed in the re-match. He has 19 wins, three more than the unbeaten Lewis, though ‘only’ seven have been inside the distance.
“Patera has held the European belt so we know that he poses a real threat and I’ll have to be at my best to get past him,” said Ritson.
“I’ve been told there’s not much between Patera and Tatli in terms of ability and style.
“Patera looks big at the weight and is a busy fighter, I’m expecting an exciting fight.
“He’s a good opponent, but it’s nothing we don’t think we can handle on the night.
“I feel like I’m improving with every fight and with the form that I’m in, I’m confident of beating anyone.”
The two foes will meet for the first time today at Newcastle Civic Centre, where Matchroom supremo Eddie Hearn will chair a media conference.
Members of the public can attend if they wish.
Tickets go on sale for the big night which not only features Foot v Davies but former GB amateur star Joshua Buatsi as well as North-East talents Joe Laws, Lawrence Osueke, Simon Valley and Tommy Ward.
Words: Roy Kelly
