Lewis Ritson kept his world super-lightweight title hopes intact with a near-perfect display against Dejan Zlaticanin in Newcastle.
The 29-year-old has now declared that he now wants more “big names” after handling the former lightweight champion with ease.
Ritson won by unanimous decision over the 10 rounds at Probellum Throwdown at the Utilita Arena and he only wants big fights in front of his hometown fans from here on in.
Ohara Davies had vowed to be at ringside on a scouting mission but changed his plans and wasn’t in Newcastle to challenge Ritson in person, after the pair exchanged barbs in various interviews.
The Newcastle United fan had batted off questions about a fight with Davies, in the build-up, but a clash with the out-spoken Londoner could be on the cards for this summer as both move up the 140lbs rankings.
“I’m ready and open to whatever Probellum, Richard Schaefer and Phil Jeffries offer me for my next fight,” said Ritson.
“But one thing is for certain, I only want big names and big fights for these fans in Newcastle. I want to thank them again tonight for their unbelievable support.”
Ritson headlined a stacked Probellum card in Newcastle which also saw Pat McCormack mark his professional debut with a brutal knockout win.
Troy Williamson kept hold of his British super-welterweight title in a classic scrap with Mason Cartwright while Mark Dickinson enhanced his reputation as a top prospect with an accomplished victory over six rounds.
In the evening’s last bout, which took place after Ritson’s win, Adam Cope out-pointed Ezequiel Gregores in a four rounder.
