Donovan Dominates Ritson in Welterweight Clash
Boxing is known for its unpredictability, but sometimes a fight can be anticipated with remarkable clarity. The welterweight clash between the slick, skillful Paddy Donovan and the determined Lewis Ritson was one of those encounters.
In January, Donovan showcased his abilities against Argentina’s William Herrera, and he promised an even sharper display against the former British lightweight champion, Ritson. The 25-year-old southpaw delivered on his promise, boxing calmly and biding his time before unleashing a decisive assault in the ninth round to stop Ritson.
The Early Rounds
The early rounds saw both fighters feeling each other out, with Donovan, the 14-0 (11 KOs) boxer, moving around the ring and Ritson, 23-4 (13 KOs), pressing forward behind his high guard. Aware of Ritson’s vulnerability to body shots, Donovan sought to land the left uppercut, but Ritson remained composed and organized.
The Turning Point
As the fight progressed, Ritson, making his third appearance in three years and competing at 147lbs for the first time, tried to lure Donovan into a brawl. However, Donovan’s disciplined approach of picking and poking with his jab and left hand prevented Ritson from gaining any real momentum.
Towards the end of the seventh round, Donovan suddenly took control of the center of the ring and began pushing Ritson back. Whether this change in tactics was a result of Ritson’s waning energy or a pre-fight plan, it proved to be a pivotal moment. In the eighth round, Donovan pinned Ritson on the ropes and unleashed a barrage of accurate, two-handed attacks. Ritson survived the round, but the onslaught continued in the ninth, leading referee Howard Foster to stop the fight after just 32 seconds.
“Donovan’s disciplined approach of picking and poking with his jab and left hand prevented Ritson from gaining any real momentum.”
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