Richardson Hitchins believes he is ready for world title fights at super lightweight. The Brooklyn-born fighter will test himself when he faces Gustavo Lemos in an IBF eliminator on April 6 in Las Vegas.
The 12-round bout, plus undercard action, will be broadcast on DAZN.
Hitchins' last contest was a career-best win over three-time world title challenger Jose Zepeda in September. While he didn't get the knockout against the crafty veteran, Hitchins scored a virtual shutout on the scorecards.
It was the New Yorker's first time headlining against a quality fighter, but the big stage did not phase him in the slightest.
“I don’t really feel the pressure of headlining,” said Hitchins in an interview with Boxing Scene before the Zepeda fight. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think that there’s always been pressure for me from day one, but I handle it because I am confident in my ability and in who I am.
“I am a special fighter at the end of the day. It’s boxing, and I truly believe I’m one of the best out there.”
WATCH: Richardson Hitchins vs. Gustavo Lemos, live on DAZN
If he gets past Lemos, Hitchins will be in line to face IBF super lightweight champion Subriel Matias. He could also take on 140 champions Devin Haney, Teofimo Lopez and Isaac Cruz, fighters that he's confident of dethroning.
The Sporting News looks into the career of Hitchins, who is looking to take over the super lightweight division.
Who is Richardson Hitchins?
Hitchins turned pro in 2017. He has a 17-0 record with seven wins via knockout.
The young fighter's dream of making the U.S. Olympic team was halted by American Gary Antuanne Russell, who outscored his countryman in a qualifying event.
Thanks to his family's heritage, Hitchins was able to represent Haiti in the Rio Games, but again, he was derailed by Russell in the opening round.
Hitchins turned pro with Mayweather Promotions. A fan of WWE, he'd first seen the Hall of Famer in a pro wrestling ring in 2008. Once they met to discuss boxing, it was a match made in heaven at that 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,” Hitchins told Business Insider. "That's when he knew I was going to be a champion, a top guy.”
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Mayweather told Hitchins early on that he could beat the likes of Errol Spence Jr. "Money" was very hands-on with the youngster who has since moved to Matchroom Boxing.
With Matchroom, Hitchins won local super lightweight gold and went on a run where he beat Yomar Alamo via retirement and John Bauza via decision. The 26-year-old last fought in September, scoring the aforementioned win over Zepeda.