Paddy Donovan rates Lewis Ritson as a “tough fighter” but expects to emerge with victory “with flying colours” when they meet in Leeds.
The 26-year-old, from Limerick, is both the champion and favourite when Ireland faces England in the WBA continental welterweight title fight at the First Direct Arena as part of Matchroom’s huge event.
Listening to Donovan he comes across as highly confident and, to be fair, he has much to be confident about, having chalked up a 13-bout winning streak, with 10 early, including his last three.
Newcastle hero Ritson is being used as a stepping stone towards the next level by Matchroom, who have succeeded Top Rank as the promoters of Donovan, who while respectful of his opponent is possessing iron-tight self-belief.
“Lewis is a tough fighter, a good competitor, an experienced former British champion,” said Paddy pictured left with promoter Eddie Hearn acting as security in the centre.
“But he’s up against an amazing talent, and this is the fight I need and the performance I need to show people just how good I am.
“If I want to be a world-class fighter, these are the opponents I have to beat.
“I’m sure Lewis is going to test me early in the fight, but I am going to come through with flying colours in tremendous fashion.”
Ritson has already stated that he will not be attempting to outbox his rival, with Donovan insisting that he will have a response to whatever ‘the Sandman’ tries in this 10-rounder.
He will be aware though that Lewis will not easily be beaten – the 30-year-old has lost on just three occasions, two coming in world title eliminators and the other in a European championship contest.
“It’s obvious he’s not going to stand and box with me,” said Paddy, who leaned into his opponent at the traditional head to head pose following Friday’s weigh-in.
“it would be pointless doing that, so his other option is to come straight forward and fight.
“I’ll be ready and waiting for him and will answer anything that he comes at me with, and I am sure I am going to let him know that I am in the fight.”
There will be an element of pressure on the favourite and not just because of that status.
He has boxed some good opposition along the way, including the likes of Danny Ball, Sam Omaison and Tom Hill, but is stepping up a level here against the Forest Hall favourite. But, again, he is approaching it with confidence.
“We’re at the stage where every fight is a world title fight for me,” said the Andy Lee-trained talent.
“This is elite fighting and you need to be ready.
“This time around, we are ready, we’ve had an amazing camp, we’ve ticked all the boxes and added new things to the game.
“I am in the best position I’ve been in as a professional fighter and I am ready to put on a big performance.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Mark Robinson/ Matchroom
