Richardson Hitchins remained undefeated but struggled in the process.
The 140-pounder, who is hoping for big fights, had to work hard to beat relative unknown Gustavo Lemos by a unanimous but close decision on Saturday in Las Vegas .
Hitchins (18-0, 7 KOs) won by scores of 117-111, 115-113 and 115-113, with only the latter two scores reflecting what happened in the ring.
The winner boxed well, fighting effectively behind his jab for most of the fight. However, Lemos (29-1, 19 KOs) used constant pressure to force Hitchins to fight him and often got the better of a humorous situation.
The fighters were nearly inseparable in terms of CompuBox stats, with Hitchins outpointing Lemos by just 11 punches overall, 172-161.
However, Hitchins has a significant advantage in landed jabs (98-22) while Lemos has a big advantage in connecting power shots (139-74). Warriors were often rewarded more for the latter than the former.
However, one judge, Tim Cheatham, somehow gave Hitchins a 117-111 win, nine rounds to three. The score of 115-113 makes sense.
The victory makes the 26-year-old from Brooklyn the mandatory challenger for the IBF 140-pound title. Champion Subriel Matias is scheduled to defend his belt against Liam Paro on June 15 in Puerto Rico, meaning Hitchins could claim the winner.
Meanwhile, 28-year-old Lemos, who has a win over Lee Selby but has never fought outside his native Argentina, proved with a strong performance that he is among the 140-pounders. pounds better.
He didn’t get as high on the scoresheet but probably would have earned at least one more important match.
