Lewis Ritson is back and back with a belt around his waist.
The popular Geordie clinched the World Boxing Association’s inter-continental title on his debut at light-welterweight in London tonight, defeating German Argentino Benitez via a unanimous decision.
Ritson won 98-92 (twice) and 99-91 at the Copper Box Arena against a very tough Argentine opponent, who arrived in the UK as the WBO’s Latino champion.
It was an ideal fight for the Newcastle star to have on his first mission at 10 stones.
Benitez was as tough as they come and the final scoreline, while an accurate one, probably fails to do the 27-year-old justice for his contribution to the contest.
But for Ritson is was a cracking night’s graft – he maintained not only his shape, but a good pace throughout the 10.
There was greater head movement than we’ve seen previously and he showed some quality by stepping back and stepping back in. He also took some good shots.
The Forest Hall fighter fully deserved his 17th professional win and those 10 rounds will have done him the world of good.
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jennifer Charlton
