Francesco Patera believes he will “handle” Lewis Ritson’s power when he returns to Newcastle next month for his European title shoot-out.
The Belgian will start as the outsider against the powerhouse Geordie when they meet for the vacant lightweight belt at the Metro Radio Arena on Saturday, October 13.
Ten of Ritson’s 16 wins have come via stoppage, including four British title successes inside the distance but Patera says he is not fazed by the reputation of Newcastle’s newest sporting superstar.
Patera has lost three of his 22 bouts, all his set-backs coming in championship contests but, and here is his crucial statistic, he has never been stopped and has never visited the canvas.
“I am very excited,” said the 25-year-=old, from Genk.
“I was very happy when I got the offer to fight Lewis.
“I saw Lewis from one year ago and I always thought ‘I want to fight this guy’.
“I know I have the ability to beat him. He is a really tough fighter, he comes forward, I’m a hard worker too and it will be a great fight on October 13.
“Lewis has never been 12 rounds, he always wins by knockout but we will see on October 13.
“I think I can handle his power, I’ve never been hurt in my career and I’ve never been down. “
Patera knows what it’s like to be European champion, having won on a split decision in Finland in May 2017, when he dethroned reigning king Edis Tatli, only to lose their re-match in Helsinki seven months later.
“I’ve fought some really good fighters,” said the ex-Belgian champ. “I feel I can hurt Lewis too.”
Tickets have gone on sale for the second Metro Radio Arena event of 2018 after Ritson shared top billing in June when Josh Kelly stopped Kris George to lift the Commonwealth welterweight crown.
This time Ritson headlines in his own right but will still have Sunderland company on the bill as his fellow Phil Jeffries-managed fighter, Glenn Foot tackles Robbie Davies Jnr for the Commonwealth and British light-welterweight belts.
There will be several unbeaten North-East boxers in action, led by IBF European holder Tommy Ward.
Newcastle Lawrence Osueke, who has won all four of his pro bouts, will be in action as will new-kid-on-the-block ‘Benwell Bomber’ Joe Laws.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Lawrence Lustig/ Matchroom
