Richardson Hitchins has told Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast he’s on the path to becoming a legend in the sport – and the next step on that journey sees him mix with former World title challenger Jose Zepeda at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida on Saturday September 23, live worldwide on DAZN.

Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is full of confidence ahead of his first headline act and is fresh off the back of shining at home in his last outing, putting New Jersey’s John Bauza on the canvas during a shut-out win at Madison Square Garden, and the Brooklyn ace now lurks with intent at #6 with the WBO and #7 with the IBF in the 140lb rankings. 

Zepeda (36-3 27 KOs) represents a significant barrier to Hitchins’ plans to move into World title contention though, but Hitchins believes that the Californian, who has challenged for World titles at both 135 and 140lbs, is the perfect opponent to prove that he’s ready to 

“Now my foot is in the door headlining my first show against someone who has a great name in the division,” said Hitchins. “It shows my pedigree and skills that I display to get to this part of the journey.

“Zepeda has competed on the World stage. It’s a level up from my previous opponents but if I am who I believe I am, I should win this fight and possibly get him out of there.

“There’s a lot on the line right now but I’m not focused on the belts. My job is to go out there and dominate Zepeda and show who I am, then we can look at the landscape of the division.

“I see myself being a legend of the sport, who has mastered the craft of boxing. I want to inspire the next generation, if you see the progression in my career from my amateur status to now, I can relate to the young talent coming through.”