Gemma Richardson Makes a Successful Professional Debut

Gemma Richardson Makes a Successful Professional Debut

After a year to forget in 2024, Gemma Richardson got her professional career off to the perfect start in Bolton on Saturday night.

Richardson outpointed the Polish veteran Angelika Oles over six largely one-sided rounds. The scoring referee gave it to Richardson via a 60-55 scorecard. Oles was incredibly tough. Richardson landed frequently and in the opening three rounds she looked on the verge of an early finish several times. But Oles deserves immense credit for staying the course.

The former elite amateur turned professional with Steve Wood and VIP Promotions after what she described as the worst year of her life. Richardson’s amateur run ended in much controversy after being overlooked for the final Olympic qualifier. But after a period of reflection, Richardson rediscovered her love for the sport again and can now look forward with some excitement to her new career in the pro ranks.

Richardson showed her obvious pedigree in comprehensively outpointing Oles. She has a touch of class about her. Five National titles and a silver medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games told us that prior. The performance against Oles was a nice little reminder of her obvious quality. But far more importantly, a good indication of what is to come as her run in the paid ranks advances over the coming years.

Gemma Richardson achieved plenty in that decorated amateur career. But she is still in her boxing infancy. At just 23, her peak years are still ahead of her. Richardson reached the pinnacle of her craft as an amateur. There is no reason why she can’t do the same as a professional.