Richardson Hitchins is stepping into the ring with a chip on his shoulder and a vision in his heart. On the latest episode of Matchroom’s Flash Knockdown podcast, he made it clear that he’s gunning for legendary status in the boxing world. His next bout against Jose Zepeda at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida, TONIGHT, broadcast live on DAZN, is another chapter in that ambitious saga.
Listeners can catch Flash Knockdown’s newest episode on platforms like Apple and Spotify by searching for ‘The Matchroom Boxing Podcast’, or directly using this link. And for those wanting to witness the bout live, TICKETMASTER.COM has tickets up for grabs.
After silencing John Bauza at the iconic Madison Square Garden, Hitchins (16-0 7 KOs) is now in the boxing world’s crosshairs, standing tall at #6 in the WBO and #7 in the IBF 140lb rankings. However, Zepeda (36-3 27 KOs), who has a World title challenger pedigree at 135 and 140lbs, isn’t about to be a stepping stone.
Hitchins acknowledged the challenge, stating, “Zepeda has been on the World stage. It’s a step up from my past rivals. But if I am the boxer I believe I am, I’ll win this fight, perhaps even with a KO.”
“It’s not about the titles right now. My goal is to show my dominance against Zepeda and then scan the division’s scene.”
“I don’t really feel the pressure of headlining,” said Hitchins. “I was born to do this; I’m made for it. I think that there’s always been pressure for me for day one, but I handle it because I am confident in my ability and in who I am. I am a special fighter; at the end of the day, it’s boxing and I truly believe I’m one of the best out there.”
What time is Zepeda vs Hitchins?
The Hitchins vs. Zepeda fight is scheduled for tonight, Saturday, September 23. The event is planned to kick off at 8 p.m. ET / 1 a.m. UK, with the main event ringwalks projected to start around 10:45 p.m. ET / 3:45 a.m. UK. However, these timings might experience some adjustments based on the durations of the undercard fights.
The entire card will be streamed live on DAZN, reaching viewers in over 200 countries worldwide.
“Every opportunity is important, so I am looking at this fight like I have all my previous fights, it’s must-win. If you can master boxing and you can conquer the world, and that’s what I am in the sport for, to be at the very top.
“From starting out to headlining on Saturday it’s been a crazy journey. I think back to being a kid that walked into a boxing gym after seeing Marcus Browne in the 2012 Olympics, I was probably 14, and following that was my first short-term goal to go to the Olympics.
“From there, to signing with Mayweather Promotions, fighting on Showtime, beating a former World Champion in Argenis Mendis, and now headlining my first show; it’s just destiny when you look at it.
“When you are chasing a dream and you are on that journey, it’s easy for people to doubt you or think you aren’t that guy. There are always things on the outside that you may have to overcome, but when you have my focus, your eyes set on that goal, all you must do is focus on that because the storm always ends, and you will get to the sunshine.
“My family was homeless, I have come from a tough beginning, but I always knew boxing would be a way out. I am making sure that me and my family never have to go back to days that I couldn’t help. Period. I think I have a gift and I am using that to make like better for them. I’m able to help and the more I master my craft, I will use it to achieve more and more inside and outside the ring.”
The podcast also dropped a few behind-the-scenes nuggets, including how a visit from boxing sensation Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis lifted Hitchins’ spirits. There’s also chatter about a potential Regis Prograis vs. Devin Haney showdown, insights from John Ryder, and a chat with Jai Opetaia. And if you’re a fan of boxing stories, Mike Costello’s trip down memory lane about Smokin’ Joe Frazier is a must-listen. Eddie Hearn also makes a special appearance.
The Hitchins vs. Zepeda bout is just the crown jewel of an action-packed night in Orlando. The Welterweight division is gearing up for an epic battle between WBA and WBC champion Jessica McCaskill and WBO title-holder Sandy Ryan, moving the division a step closer to naming an undisputed champion.
Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams is setting his sights on a World title shot, facing Steve Rolls. Orestes Velazquez will be defending his WBA International Super-Lightweight title against Mohamed Soumaoro.
The lineup is packed, with rising stars like Khalil Coe looking for his third KO win of 2023 against Kenmon Evans. Fighters like Jeovanny Estella, Jasmine Artega, and Roberto Rivera Gomez are also slated to deliver knock-out performances, ensuring boxing fans will be on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Fighter Quotes:
RICHARDSON HITCHINS, vying for the WBC Silver, WBO NABO, and IBF North American titles:
“I’m truly excited about this fight. All praises to God for granting me this chance, and a big thanks to Eddie and the entire Matchroom team. Jose Zepeda may think I haven’t fought at this caliber, but he’s missing out on the bigger picture. At 22, with just ten professional bouts under my belt, I took down fighters like Argenis Mendez, a former world champion. Since then, every non-world championship fight felt like a downgrade.
“Yes, Zepeda has been in many fights, but not all showcased the variety and athleticism I bring. Take Ivan Baranchyk, for instance, who might be his most notable victory. Baranchyk lacked fundamental skills. Zepeda’s experience won’t stand much ground this Saturday, regardless of his bout with Jose Ramirez.
“The reason I’m here after 16 fights is clear: I’m tactically sound. Zepeda will understand that once we start. I earned this fight and dominated everyone I’ve been pitted against. Zepeda should brace for a real challenge. I’m here to stay.
“I respect Zepeda’s skills. He is undoubtedly a proficient boxer. Fighters like Baranchyk made mistakes which he capitalized on. I won’t.”
JOSE ZEPEDA, challenging for the WBC Silver, WBO NABO, and IBF North American titles:
“I’m grateful to Eddie Hearn and the entire Matchroom crew. A shoutout to my new trainer, Manny Robles, my brother, and Stitch for making this training session exceptional. My history in challenger fights hasn’t been smooth, but I feel that I’m currently at my peak performance.
“Accepting this fight primarily revolves around my ambition for future World title challenges. Hitchins is undeniably fast and perhaps the best at 140. If I best him, it paves my way to a world title shot.
“I’ve observed Hitchins’ fights. He’s a promising talent but hasn’t yet faced challenges of this magnitude. This bout will test his ability to handle pressure. Competing for a world title feels distinct. When I first fought Ramirez, one body shot was enough to signal the heightened stakes. Let’s uncover Hitchins’ mettle this Saturday.”
Hitchins vs. Zepeda Event
- Richardson Hitchins vs. Jose Zepeda; Super lightweight
- Austin Williams vs. Steve Rolls; Middleweight
- Jessica McCaskill vs. Sandy Ryan; WBC, WBA and WBO women’s welterweight title unification
- Orestes Velazquez vs. Mohamed Soumaoro; Super lightweight
- Khalil Coe vs. Kenmon Evans; Light heavyweight
- Jeovanny Estella vs. Luis Caraballo; Light middleweight
- Jasmine Artega vs. Haley Pasion; Women’s super flyweight
- Roberto Rivera Gomez vs. Carlos Andre Dos Santos Rocha; Featherweight
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