Take a leaf out of Lewis Ritson’s book by conquering the north and then taking on Britain and the World.
That was the message today from Ritson’s manager, Phil Jeffries, who promotes tonight’s Northern Area title match between Tom Hill and Ellis Corrie at Rainton Meadows Arena.
This mouth-watering Redcar v Darlington welterweight confrontation will be at the same Houghton venue where Ritson began his rise to the top of the light-welter division.
Pretty much exactly three years ago, Ritson became Northern Area champion when he stopped Jordan Ellison in the seventh round of a terrific scrap.
Thirty six months on, ‘The Sandman’ is on the verge of a WBA world title assault and Jeffries says North-East boxers must be inspired by what he has achieved.
“The Northern Area title is a great stepping stone,” Jeffries told punch-lines.
“Look at what it did for Lewis.
“The Northern Area title can open doors for boxers and they have to realize that.
“They have to start boxing each other, it’s as simple as that.”
Since Ritson’s victory over Ellison, there have only been three regional championship contests and none since December 2017.
Jaffa added: “The British Boxing Board of Control love the old fashioned route, boxers fighting for area titles.
“Our boxers up here should see what it’s done for Lewis and take inspiration from that.
“If Tom beats Ellis then I’ll be contacting the Board to press his claims for higher titles.
“Another of my boxers, Kirk Goodings, went from Northern Area champion to box for and win the English title.”
Jeffries and his promoting comrade, Steve Wraith, present a nine-bout event at Houghton, with Hill v Corrie looking a belting showdown.
“It’s going to be a canny show,” he declared. “We like to get plenty on and fans will see nine bouts.
Hill v Corrie looks too close to call. Click here to read more on the big fight.
“Tom and Ellis is a 50/50 contest and we’re expecting a class bout.
“Tickets have gone well,” said Jaffa. “But for those who fancy a great night of boxing, there are tickets on the door.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Mark Robinson/ Matchroom
