'My world title fight': Rochdale boxer Ryszard Lewicki knows it's win or bust in crunch Manchester rematch

Ryszard Lewicki admits his boxing career is essentially on the line when he takes the ring in Manchester on Saturday night. The Rochdale-based middleweight rematches Bahadur Karami at Manchester’s Bowlers Exhibition Centre after their first fight ended in a draw back in July. 

“The rematch is everything to me, it’s my world title fight,” Lewicki said. “My whole professional boxing future is on the line. I’ve prepared as diligently as possible, thought through every possible scenario, and prepared for anything Karami attempts. 

“It’s my opportunity to erase the only blemish on my professional record. Last time we gave the fans a night of true excitement. Judging it a draw was controversial, but the truth is that I did make mistakes. This time Karami will face the best version of me as I intend to remain undefeated and hopefully stop him.” 

The Polish-born fighter, a successful amateur, turned professional in March 2022. Four decisive wins were followed by the draw with Karami. Lewicki won his sixth and last fight in September against Liam Wells. Saturday’s six-round rematch comes on cornerman Pat Barrett’s Black Flash Promotions 10th anniversary show. 

The 27-year-old has been trained by Barrett since the summer having moved from another celebrated Manchester fight figure in Joe Gallagher. He also works part time as a carer for adults with learning disabilities. 

“This year has been a  rollercoaster for sure and crucial to my progress, teaching me many valuable lessons and enabling me to learn and grow as an individual and a boxer,” Lewicki said. “I’ve taken a major setback and responded by becoming mentally and physically tougher.  All these sacrifices will be appreciated by people when they see what happens on Saturday. In 2024 we take over.”

Any individuals or companies wishing to support Lewicki through sponsorship can contact him via his Facebook page or by email [email protected].

The Bowlers show features Shaw brothers Jack Rafferty and Thomas Rafferty, with the former fighting for the Commonwealth title. George Killeen is one of many prospects in action on the card.