Richardson Hitchins believes he is ready for world title fights at super lightweight. The Brooklyn-born fighter will be tested when he faces Gustavo Lemos in an IBF eliminator on April 6 in Las Vegas.
The 12-round fight, in addition to the undercard, will air on DAZN.
Hitchens’ last contest was the best victory of his career over three-time world title challenger Jose Zepeda in September. While he didn’t get the knockout against the wily veteran, Hitchens put a virtual shutout on the cards.
It was the first time the New Yorker headlined against a quality fighter, but the big stage didn’t affect him in the slightest.
“I don’t really feel the pressure of being a headliner,” Hitchens said in an interview with boxing scene before the fight with Zepeda. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think there’s always been pressure on me from day one, but I handle it because I have confidence in my ability and who I am.
“I’m a special fighter at the end of the day. “It’s boxing and I truly believe I’m one of the best there is.”
LOOK: Richardson Hitchins vs. Gustavo Lemos, live on DAZN
If he beats Lemos, Hitchins will be in line to face IBF super lightweight champion Subriel Matías. He could also face 140 champions Devin Haney, Teofimo Lopez and Isaac Cruz, fighters he is confident of dethroning.
The Jugo Mobile looks at the career of Hitchins, who is looking to take over the super lightweight pision.
Who is Richardson Hitchins?
Hitchins turned professional in 2017. He has a record of 17-0 with seven wins by knockout.
The young wrestler’s dream of making the United States Olympic team was interrupted by American Gary Antuanne Russell, who bested his compatriot in a qualifying event.
Thanks to his family’s heritage, Hitchens was able to represent Haiti at the Rio Games, but again, Russell derailed him in the first round.
Hitchens turned professional with Mayweather Promotions. A WWE fan, he had first seen the Hall of Famer in a professional wrestling ring in 2008. Once they met to talk about boxing, it was a perfect match at the time.
“Floyd knew I could fight, but he didn’t know I was special until I fought at the Mayweather Boxing Club in Las Vegas,” Hutchins said. Business Insider. “That’s when he knew I was going to be a champion, a great guy.”
Mayweather told Hitchens early on that he could beat the likes of Errol Spence Jr. “Money” was very hands-on with the young man who has since moved on to Matchroom Boxing.
With Matchroom, Hitchins won local gold at super lightweight and went on a streak in which he defeated Yomar Alamo by retirement and John Bauza by decision. The 26-year-old last fought in September, achieving the aforementioned victory over Zepeda.
