Unexpected Beginnings
It was an unexpected wake-up call for Richardson Hitchins when his phone buzzed at 3 a.m. One glance at the screen revealed a message from none other than legendary boxer Floyd Mayweather. At that point, Hitchins was a teenager navigating the complexities of life in Brooklyn, and Mayweather’s proposal was nothing short of surreal; he offered Hitchins a ride in a private jet from New York to Las Vegas.
Training and Challenges
Once in Las Vegas, Mayweather ensured that Hitchins had every opportunity to hone his skills, escorting him from his luxurious condo to the Mayweather Boxing Club in one of his high-end cars. Growing up, Hitchins faced numerous challenges, including daily struggles that ultimately led to his family living in a shelter while he trained to qualify for the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.
Olympic Experience
The Rio Games brought together a bevy of future boxing stars, from silver medalist Shakur Stevenson to Teofimo Lopez and Charles Conwell. Unfortunately for Hitchins, he suffered a first-round exit after facing Gary Antuanne Russell, which left him feeling adrift as he watched his peers grab the spotlight.
Career Progression
Despite the challenges, Hitchins’s career trajectory shifted positively when he eventually signed with Mayweather Promotions. Despite Leonard Ellerbe stepping down as CEO, his support didn’t wane.
“Ellerbe always believed in me and said I was the next big thing in boxing,”
Hitchins stated, reflecting on his early career and the unwavering encouragement he received.
However, the road wasn’t without its bumps. Hitchins recalls his earlier attempts to attract the interest of other promoters, including Top Rank, who unfortunately missed out on the potential he later displayed.
“Later on, someone from Top Rank admitted not signing me was one of their biggest regrets,”
he shared, showing he has no grudges against past decisions.
Ambition and Competition
The competition at the Olympics only added fuel to his ambition, especially as he now navigates his way in a new environment with fellow fighters like Stevenson, who initially secured a contract with Top Rank while Hitchins was overlooked. But now, both boxers find themselves within the ranks of Matchroom Boxing, a major player in the fight world, and Hitchins notes,
“Everything played out as it should.”
Significant Victories
His rise in boxing has been marked by significant victories, including a decisive win against former lightweight champion George Kambosos, where he knocked Kambosos out in the eighth round.
“That fight was a confirmation of my skills and an affirmation for Matchroom,”
Hitchins remarked, underscoring the importance of that moment.
Current Outlook
With a professional record of 20 wins and 8 knockouts, Hitchins feels he is finally showcasing his true capabilities.
“In the ring, I’m stronger now, and my punches are landing hard,”
he explained, noting that opponents are feeling the weight of his punches, though he remains committed to employing strategic finesse rather than brute force in his fights.
Hitchins is now set to face Oscar Duarte, and his confidence is palpable.
“I know it’s up to me to make this a signature victory,”
he said. As he prepares for the bout, he reflects on his journey from being an overlooked prospect to potentially securing a place among top-ranked boxers in America, joining the likes of Jesse Rodriguez and Devin Haney in the elite circles of the sport.
With his eyes firmly set on the horizon, Hitchins is steadfast in his belief that he will rise through the rankings, stating simply,
“I just need the opportunity to face the best.”
