Richardson Hitchins, the IBF super-lightweight champion, is eyeing his first title defense against George Kambosos Jr. after witnessing Jaron Ennis`s dominant welterweight victory. While not officially confirmed, rumors suggest a June fight in New York for Hitchins and Kambosos.
New Yorker Hitchins is excited about the prospect, especially given the ongoing verbal sparring with Kambosos. Kambosos recently taunted Hitchins after a fight, using nicknames and questioning his fighting style and punching power. Hitchins responded sharply, stating he won`t be satisfied unless Kambosos is badly beaten in their potential match.
The undefeated Hitchins, 27, is motivated to prove his doubters wrong. He believes Kambosos underestimates him, recalling Kambosos`s comparisons to Gustavo Lemos. Hitchins dismisses this, pointing out Lemos`s knockout win over Lee Selby, whom Kambosos only narrowly defeated, suggesting Kambosos is not in Lemos`s league.
Hitchins previously won a unanimous decision against Lemos in a competitive fight and secured his IBF title against Liam Paro in Puerto Rico.
Looking ahead, Hitchins aims for title unification fights if he overcomes Kambosos. He mentioned potential opponents like Alberto Puello, Gary Antuanne Russell, and Teofimo Lopez, with a Hitchins-Lopez bout seeming increasingly likely.
The idea of a Hitchins-Lopez fight at Alcatraz, proposed by Turki Alalshikh, has been discussed. Lopez, the WBO super-lightweight champion, will fight Arnold Barboza in New York`s Times Square in May.
Hitchins believes a fight with Lopez would be a major event, especially in New York, both fighters` hometown. He acknowledges discussions about Alcatraz or a Canelo undercard for their potential fight.
