By Lewis Croft: Former WBC Light welterweight champion Junior ‘The Hitter’ Witter (37-3-2, 22 KO’s) returns to boxing following a 18 month absence following his defeat to Devon Alexander (21-1, 13 KO’s). After years of struggle to get down to the 140lb limit the long lay off has left no alternative but to move up to 147. Appearing on Sky Sports Boxing Magazine show ‘Ringside’ he stated that he would no longer be able to make the 10 stone weight limit and that moving up to welterweight would suit him perfectly.

Junior Witter made clear that his intention is to become world champion once again and sent a message to current WBC champion Andre Berto (27-0, 21 KO’s).“ Berto is big and strong, but I will exploit him, show him where the flaws in his technique are.” Those where very strong words from the Bradford switch hitter and it was said with real conviction.

In the past Witter has talked a lot of trash and for years a potential unification bout with Manchester’s Ricky Hatton always alluded him. With Ricky Hatton now retired and promoting fighters, a potential bout with another Hatton is also a possibility. Matthew Hatton (41-4-2, 16 KO’s), the current EBU champion, challenges highly rated youngster Saul Alvarez (35-0, 26 KO’s) on March 5th. Developing quietly in the shadow of his brother, Matthew has boxed on the big undercards gaining valuable experience along the way. To beat the highly talented Mexican will be a mammoth task for the ‘Magic Man’ but is a big chance to raise his profile in the States.

Witters first task in the Welterweight division the modest Romanian based Canadian Victor Puiu (18-1, 9 KO’s) taking place at the Hershey Centre, Ontario on February 19th. Witter will look to eliminate his ring rust and put on a good performance for the fans in Canada. Realistically Puiu should not pose any threat to Witter, it should be a routine performnce. A win could set up the big domestic clash with Hatton for the European title. Winning the title places the champion with a top ten ranking with the WBC, whose champion is Andre Berto