JD NXTGEN: Lewis Ritson defends British belt on Manchester bill

Lewis Ritson defends his British title on the latest bumper JD NXTGEN bill, which also showcases exciting prospects, big-hitting contenders and a star woman.

The 24-year-old British champion has burst onto the domestic scene and makes his first title defence against hometown man Joe Murray at the Victoria Warehouse Hotel in Manchester this Sunday, live on Sky Sports.

Live JD Nxtgen Boxing

Talented 23-year-old Jordan Gill tests himself in a British title eliminator, while the heavy-handed Hosea Burton, former Team GB fighter Natasha Jonas, rising cruiserweight Sam Hyde, and pro debutant Qais Ashfaq are all in action.

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Bill-topping bout

Ritson ripped the Lonsdale belt away from Robbie Barrett with a destructive stoppage victory and the ambitious champion is hungry for big name fights in a division that includes the likes of Luke Campbell, Anthony Crolla and Ricky Burns.

But Murray is a proud Mancunian, trained by his older brother, a former British champion himself, and has vowed to bring the belt back into the family.

What's on the line?

Ritson will be determined to prove he can climb above British class, becoming a new fans' favourite for the north east.

The 31-year-old Murray cannot afford another setback at this stage of his career after previously suffering two defeats to Liam Walsh at title level.

Who else should I watch out for?

Gill is the newest title hope in David Coldwell's gym, having spent a spell with Dominic Ingle in Sheffield, and the super-featherweight puts his perfect 18-fight record on the line against former Commonwealth champion Jason Cunningham.

Light-heavyweight Burton has been made to wait for a British title shot at Frank Buglioni, who took his title in 2016, and will be eager to send out a message to his London rival.

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Jonas can also make a statement as she faces Karina Kopinska, a former opponent of Katie Taylor, and unbeaten super-welterweight Scott Fitzgerald can enhance his growing reputation.

When and where's it on?

This Sunday's show will be staged at the converted warehouse, which dates back to 1932, situated a short distance away from Manchester United's Old Trafford stadium.

Fights will be streamed live on Sky Sports Facebook from just before 6pm, with live coverage starting at 7pm on Sky Sports Action.

Watch Lewis Ritson's British title fight with Joe Murray on a packed JDNXTGEN bill, starting at 7pm on Sunday March 25, live on Sky Sports Action.