Lerrone Richards has been notable by his absence over the past couple of years.
The former European and IBO super middleweight champion has boxed just once since December 2021 when he earned a creditable but tight split decision over the dangerous Carlos Gongora.
Frustrated by the lack of activity and what he saw as the lack of a plan, 31 year old Richards (17-0, 4 KO’s) left Matchroom and has linked up with Wasserman. His fight with Central Area super middleweight champion, Mickey Ellison, will be his first fight under their banner and will be screened live on Channel 5 on Friday night as part of the Harlem Eubank – Timo Schwarzkopf card.
Richards is a talented stylist but has attracted criticism for employing a safety first style at times. He will now have the opportunity to reinvent himself on free to air television.
“I’ve been working hard behind closed doors and I’m excited to show my skills on Friday night,” Richards told boxing Social.
“I always knew there was a plan and I’m excited about what the future holds. I’ve achieved a lot at it is but I wanna achieve a lot more. I still have dreams and aspirations and Wasserman is gonna push me towards those dreams.
“I changed coaches – I’m with Grant Smith now – so it’s given us time to gel even more and for me to learn more and add to my arsenal.”
Richards was linked to the likes of John Ryder, Felix Sturm and Gabe Rosado in the not too distant past and still wants to test himself against the very best in the division.
“That’s the plan,” he said. “I am one of the best fighters in the world. I have proven that in the past and now it’s time to push towards these world titles.”
Spending the last few months in Grant Smith’s bustling gym has given Richards the chance to observe IBF flyweight champion, Sunny Edwards, at first hand. Edwards has a massive unification fight with WBO champion, Jesse Rodriguez, booked in for December and Richards has no doubts about who will emerge victorious.
“Sunny’s gonna win this fight and that’s all I’m gonna say.”