Richardson Hitchins emerged victorious in an IBF light welterweight title eliminator against Gustavo Lemos, securing a 12-round unanimous decision from the judges. However, the outcome of the fight was met with skepticism and criticism. While Lemos managed to hurt Hitchins multiple times and displayed an aggressive fighting style, the referee allowed Hitchins to clinch frequently without issuing any warnings. This questionable decision significantly impacted the flow of the fight and raised concerns about the fairness of the result.
Following the announcement of the judges’ scores, fans on social media voiced their discontent, labeling the decision as a robbery. Additionally, those in attendance at the venue expressed their disappointment with loud boos. Many believed that Lemos was the rightful winner of the bout, as he showcased superior offensive skills and made continuous efforts to engage with Hitchins, despite the latter’s defensive tactics. Hitchins’ strategy primarily consisted of jabbing, moving, frequent clinching, and employing illegal tactics to prevent Lemos from landing effective shots. The excessive holding by Hitchins disrupted the flow of the fight and frustrated both fans and critics alike.
Looking Ahead to a Title Shot
Despite the controversy surrounding his victory, Richardson Hitchins finds himself in a position to challenge for a world title against the winner of the upcoming fight between IBF light welterweight champion Subriel Matias and Liam Paro. Promoted by Eddie Hearn, Hitchins may have an opportunity to face Matias in the near future if the reigning champion emerges victorious in his next bout. Hearn’s praise for Hitchins after the fight raised eyebrows, as many expected him to acknowledge the questionable tactics employed by the young boxer.
As Hitchins prepares for a potential title shot, questions linger about his ability to compete against top fighters without resorting to excessive holding and defensive maneuvers. The prospect of facing a strong opponent like Matias raises concerns about whether Hitchins can adapt his style to ensure a fair and competitive fight. While some suggest that a rematch between Hitchins and Lemos with a different referee could settle the controversy, the allure of a lucrative title shot may prevent such a scenario from unfolding. The boxing community will be closely monitoring Hitchins’ future matches to gauge his performance and assess his growth as a fighter.
Richardson Hitchins’ victory in the title eliminator may have been marred by controversy and criticism, but it has also set the stage for his potential ascent to a world title opportunity. As he navigates the challenges and uncertainties of the boxing world, it remains to be seen whether Hitchins can establish himself as a legitimate contender and overcome the doubts surrounding his fighting style.