Looking like a machine.
That is the clinical four-word assessment on Lewis Ritson ahead of his WBA world light-welterweight eliminator with Robbie Davies Jnr on Saturday, October 19 in Newcastle.
The words come from the man who has been his head trainer throughout 2019 – Neil Fannan.
Ritson has gone full-time with the highly-respected coach in Hartlepool following on from his failed challenge for the vacant European lightweight title 12 months ago.
Fannan has made a number of tweaks to the approach of ‘the Sandman’ and has told punch-lines that he has altered his own approach as they look to beat Davies at the Utilita Arena.
“We’ve used eight different sparring partners,” reported Fannan.
“I’ve never done that before, but it’s working.
“Next week it will be up to nine and we’re talking boxers with World, British, Commonwealth and European titles.
“Lewis has sparred welterweights, southpaws, orthodox boxers, switch-hitters, the lot.
“Last week Lee Selby and three of his gym colleagues came up to Hartlepool to spar Lewis and this week we’ve come to Bristol to spar them at Chris Sanigar’s gym.
“Lewis did six rounds with Lee and two rounds each with three other lads – 12 very good rounds.
“It’s 90 rounds and counting, Lewis is looking like a machine, he could fight Davies now.”
No stone has been left unturned for this fascinating and bitter battle.
Davies has not only been disparaging about Ritson’s entitlement to a world title eliminator but also questioned his physical capabilities.
The Forest Hall hero will be looking, therefore, to make a statement in every facet come October 19 but, ultimately, defeat the talented Scouser to put himself in line for a world title shot.
It is a confrontation which has caught the imagination with the Metro Radio Arena, to give it it’s old title, almost a sell-out.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Nigel Roddis
