Lewis Ritson finally gets a title shot and opponent
3kingsboxing has learned that undefeated lightweight Lewis Ritson (16-0, 10 KOs) will face former European lightweight champion Francesco Patera (19-3, 7 KOs).
The European lightweight title has been in a whirlwind of uncertainty. It was first reported that Edis Tatli vacated the title, leaving his opponent Marvin Petit waiting to see what will happen next.
This opportunity opened the door for Ritson ,who currently holds the BBBofC lightweight title. However, for some reason yet disclosed, Petit opted out – which yet again left the EBU scrambling to find a replacement.
Patera, a 25 year-old fighter from Belgium, has now been given a second bite at the apple. There is no doubt he wants nothing more than to reclaim the title he lost against Tatli late last year.
Ritson (24), is the WBC #10 rated fighter. He has been making a statement lately against quality opposition with his last four fights resulting in knock outs.
These results have many pundits feeling this could be his time. A victory could see his stock rise. He will have a height advantage as well as the home crowd to help cheer him on.
In what only can be described as twenty-four hours of chaos, the EBU should be commended on how they handled this intense situation. In addition, also for securing the scheduled date for a very important contest.
This fight is scheduled to take place at the Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle on October 13.
By: Garrisson “Bo” Bland
