Gemma Richardson: The Next Chapter

Gemma Richardson: The Next Chapter

Gemma Richardson took another step in her career last month when she outpointed the former two-time European champion Kirstie Bavington in Birmingham.

On her second appearance on an MVP card, Richardson took a 60-54 points decision after six good learning rounds. It wasn’t perfect. At times it was a somewhat scrappy, messy affair. But the 25-year-old can still be pleased with her night’s work. Richardson will be a better fighter because of those twelve minutes she shared with Bavington. The pre-fight needle would also have helped her development in the pro ranks.

After moving to 5-0 against Bavington, Richardson has seemingly already got her next fight lined. ‘Massive’ news is being teased. A 31st October date in Newcastle looks like being the latest step in a career that could end with Richardson reaching the upper echelons of her sport. It would be her fourth fight of the year. Regular ring activity is crucial to any fighter, especially prospects who are still learning their craft. In many ways, everything is moving in the right direction for the undefeated super-lightweight hopeful.

The performance against Bavington, a fighter who has tasted title glory herself at European level on two separate occasions, indicated that Richardson could be ready for a title opportunity in the not too distant future. The former amateur star believes she is ready.

“I want some sort of title,” Richardson told me before her fight with Bavington. “The plan was always to get a title this year. I don’t want to fight journeywomen anymore. I want to fight people at the level I believe I am at. I want to show people why I did so well as an amateur. I want to make my name as a pro now.”

Gemma Richardson is clearly relishing the next stage of her career. If the matchmaking is sensible, and there is no need to push the button too soon, Richardson looks to have an incredibly bright future ahead of her. That amateur run and her Olympic dreams ended in frustration and more; the professional career should have a completely different ending. Winning titles looks like being a matter of when, not if.

Photo Credit: Most Valuable Promotions