Lewis Ritson (20-1, 21 KOs) is ready to make the next step towards becoming a world champion when he steps into the ring on Oct. 17 against a man with plenty of experience in world title scenarios, Miguel Vazquez (42-9, 16 KOs).
Vazquez held the IBF lightweight championship from 2010 until 2014, when he was dethroned by Mickey Bey via split decision.
Since then, the Mexican fighter has served as a gatekeeper for British contenders such as Josh Taylor and Ohara Davies, both of whom conquered Vazquez.
The 26-year-old Ritson aims to become the third Brit to defeat the 33-year-old, and believes it is the sort of win that will propel him into the world title scene.
“I've had no time off,” said Ritson (via BoxingScene). “I've been in the gym the full year training hard, staying ready and waiting for a date to be confirmed.
"Nothing has really changed and now it’s full steam ahead for October 17.
“If I bring my 'A game' then I'll be very hard to beat and that’s what I'm planning on doing. We know what Miguel Vazquez is all about, he’s going to be a real test for me. I’ve had top level sparring with the likes of Josh Taylor that has kept me fresh.
“Once I get the win on October 17 I’m going to have a week off and then get straight back in the gym.
"I want to fight again by the end of the year, hopefully Eddie (Hearn) can keep the big fights coming. I want to keep pushing towards that WBA world title, that’s the main goal for me.”
The WBA regular title is currently in the possession of Gervonta Davis, while the "Super" edition belongs to Vasiliy Lomachenko, who hopes to unify that as well as his WBO and The Ring titles with Teofimo Lopez Jr.'s IBF belt on the same night Ritson and Vazquez main event at Newcastle's Utilita Arena.