Lewis Ritson’s world title dream, and possibly his career, are in tatters following a heartbreaking stoppage against the brilliant Jeremias Ponce.
The Argentinian entered the ring a significant underdog but he demonstrated early on he was more than a match for Ritson as he becomes the mandatory challenger for Josh Taylor’s IBF super lightweight belt.
From the first bell, Ponce was in Ritson’s face and he set a frightening pace that seemed impossible to maintain. Ritson was hurt with a body shot in round one but he did grow into the fight as it progressed, despite the fact that he was losing rounds purely on work rate.
After the halfway mark, where Ponce appeared to hold a handy lead, the visitor increased his attacks and Ritson was visibly hurt on more than one occasion as he kept retreating to the ropes for refuge. At the end of round nine, his father and trainer, Dave Ritson, warned his son that he was only giving him one more round but Ponce wouldn’t even allow him that.
A sickening body shot at the start of the tenth session floored Ritson, which prompted his corner to throw in towel. Incredibly, referee Steve Gray dismissed the gesture and let the action continue but after more punishment from Ponce, assaults that dropped Ritson twice more, Gray finally saw sense and stopped the action.
Ponce can now look forward to a world title shot, and based on this performance, it’s a reward that is fully deserved. The 140-pound division is crying out for characters and Ponce can be an interesting addition to the mix.
For a full recap of a dramatic night in Newcastle, please read below.