Sometimes boxing is about cutting through the traditional bull of those with a vested interest and simply putting a result and name on a CV. Thus Lewis Ritson did what was desired when on his home turf at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle he defeated a former world champion Dejan Zlaticanin.
No matter that the man from Montenegro will be 38 next month, had lost three of his last five fights, and had appeared in public as often as Prince Andrew in the last few years. Zlaticanin, halted in two by Roberto Ramirez in 2018, was last out in September last year after nearly two years away from the sport, losing a decision to Zaur Abdullaev over twelve in Russia.
His career is coming to an end and Ritson ushered him towards the exit. Sure it went the 10-round distance but three scorecards marked 100-90, 100-90 and 99-91 revealed the difference in desire and cruise control.
