Patera is slated in to face Ritson in the exceedingly popular English fighter in his hometown of Newcastle, on October 13th.
The vacant EBU lightweight championship will be on the line, which Patera used to hold before losing it in a rematch against former champ Edis Tatli.
Ritson’s last fight at the Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle, produced a spine-tingling atmosphere, and Patera is relishing venturing into the lion’s den.
“I will expect a great atmosphere, I know they will all be against me, but I don’t mind that. I know England is a passionate country and they love their boxers.” Patera exclusively told World Boxing News.
Ritson is striking up a fierce reputation as a pressure-fighting, hard-hitting force in the lightweight division, which has led to some labelling him as the ‘Geordie Golovkin’.
Having said that, the affable Patera is confident that he can upset the applecart and reclaim the EBU belt.
“He’s a good fighter. He fights like a warrior, he comes forward and fights hard. I think he’s tough and he works hard,” Patera said of Ritson.
“I have seen weaknesses. I have seen videos and I know I can beat this guy and on October 13th I will get the victory,” he added.
The weaknesses Patera alluded to have yet to really show in Ritson, apart from one bad round against Scott Cardle, which Ritson overcame to stop the Scot in the following round in brutal fashion.
It truly would be a monumental upset if the 25-year-old can topple Ritson, who is as big as 1-80 on with some bookmakers to win the European title on October 13th.
Thomas Davison is a staff writer for World Boxing News. Follow Thomas on Twitter @thomasdavison93
