Ringside Report: Gemma Richardson Beats Kirsty Bavington in Birmingham
Gemma Richardson remained unbeaten in Birmingham with a comprehensive six-round victory over the former two-time European champion Kirstie Bavington. Richardson won every round, claiming a 60-54 points victory over Bavington in their super-lightweight fight.
At times, it was messy, but the greater class of the former elite Team GB amateur star ultimately prevailed. Bavington was guilty of holding throughout, but it stopped Richardson from doing even more of the cleaner work she was desperate to find. Her tactics worked to a point, but she didn’t do enough work of her own. Spoiling tactics don’t win rounds.
It was Richardson (5-0) who landed the cleaner shots. When she found space, which was rare, her jab was key. It found its mark in the opening seconds and was her key punch. But she was overreaching and falling into her shots a little too often. But Bavington (10-6-2) was also pulling her in, and it spoiled the spectacle somewhat. I thought Richardson could have moved around her opponent rather than just falling into the clinch. But that will come with experience.
But the six rounds will be extremely valuable going forward for the unbeaten prospect. Just five fights in, and winning every round against the experienced Bavington, it’s hard to be overly critical of her performance. A good learning experience with room for improvement.
It was her second victory on an MVP card, and the 25-year-old will hope they now sign her. They should.
FightPost: Boxing & MMA News 