Richardson Hitchins Knows He Must Be Impressive On His Rise

Coming up Saturday night in Orlando, FL, unbeaten, rising junior welterweight Richardson Hitchins will headline for Matchroom Boxing in their 12 round main event with veteran Jose Zepeda. And, for the New York native Hitchins, he realizes that he needs an impressive showing to help his stock in a loaded division.

Hitchins, 16-0, 7 KOs, spoke earlier this week about rising to the occasion,

“Winning is No. 1, of course, but to get the big fights I have to win and dominate,” Hitchins said. “I’m ready for the champions because when you look at Prograis or Haney, those are guys that I am a nightmare for. I have size, reach, superb defense. I can damn near feel when a guy is about to punch.

“So, when you have a guy like that against a guy that doesn’t know how to defend themselves, it kind of makes it tricky for them, because I’ve been in there with guys that just stand in front of you and don’t have the ability. You get in front of a guy like Shakur Stevenson — that turns boxing into a math problem. It’s different and that’s what you face with me. I can bring that puzzle that people can’t solve. It’s algebra in the ring.”

A tough test likely awaits

Mathematics aside, Hitchins is in with the most tested, experienced opponent he’s faced in Zepeda. The California native is 37-3, 28 KOs, and fought a tremendous battle with the aforementioned Regis Prograis for the WBC 140 lb. vacant crown in November of last year. Zepeda gave Prograis a tough test before being stopped in the eleventh round. The defeat snapped the 34 year old’s six fight win streak. He also previously lost a close decision in a world title challenge

You can hear us discussing Hitchins-Zepeda on our latest “Big Fight Weekend Preview” podcast amd alson hear from on of the top stars in the sport in Canelo Alvarez by clicking play below,

Hitchins’ last fight, a 10 round decision over John Bauza, in February in New York has him in position to point towards a possible title showdown in 2024.  But, in division loaded with names like Prograis, Haney (who’s looking to move up and fight Progras), Ryan Garcia and others, he’s got to do something impressive to get attention.

That starts with Saturday night in Orlando.