FORMER lightweight king George Kambosos Jr is back in the gym ahead of a likely showdown with IBF world super-lightweight champion Richardson Hitchins.
The 31-year-old comes off a unanimous decision victory over late-notice opponent Jake Wyllie, overcoming several moments of adversity in his first outing at 140lbs.
Not only did the Australian struggle to nullify the relentless aggression of his countryman but, following an accidental head clash in the ninth round, he also suffered a cut on his forehead.
And yet, despite his injury, Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has mentioned June 21 as a possible date for his mooted clash with Hitchins, 19-0 (7 KOs).
The pair have gone back-and-forth on social media over the past few months, with Kambosos, 22-3 (10 KOs), often referring to his rival as ‘s***chins.’
But regardless of their heated war of words, Hitchins has proven to be a highly-skilled operator after outpointing Liam Paro for his red and gold strap last year.
Kambosos, meanwhile, is yet to remind fans of his quality since dethroning unified lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez with a monumental victory in 2021.
Two defeats to Devin Haney and an 11th-round stoppage loss to Vasyl Lomachenko have, instead, raised a series of questions regarding his credentials at world level.
But nevertheless, ‘Ferocious’ looks set to earn himself another opportunity to become a two-division titlist against Hitchins, who, it seems, will enjoy a home advantage in New York.
Kambosos took to social media yesterday, posting a video of himself hitting the bag.
On X, he wrote: “In the office straight away! In Championship shape, in 12 round condition, weights perfect, no rust, all systems go, best thing is a quick turnaround.
“Long layoffs are detrimental to fighters. Everything is swaying to my side. I love NYC, that’s my city. Already 2-0 there. Soon to be 3-0! See you all soon.”
And so, it would appear that the cut he sustained just over a week ago is of little concern in the Kambosos camp.
