Richardson Hitchins Dominates Mendez To Collect Split Decision Win

Hitchins dominates Mendez en route to split decision win in step-up bout

Veteran super lightweight Algenis “La Tormenta” Mendez (25-6-3, 12 KO’s) lost to Richardson Hitchins (12-0, 5 KO’s) by way of split decision. The win stands as the first milestone on Hitchins’ professional ledger. It was well-known going into the bout that this was a step-up bout for the Mayweather Promotions prospect fighter.

Obviously, on this side of the fisticuffs, the elevation came at the correct time. Conversely, the bout was all-around disastrous for Mendez. The talented Dominican has not occupied the win column in a little over two years now. This loss to the budding boxing prospect has certainly left his career stranded in limbo.

ONE-SIDED AFFAIR

The first three rounds were clearly dominated by Hitchins’ swift, snappy jab and smooth foot work. The Brooklyn native was able to dictate the pace and range of action. Though, it was apparent that the undefeated fighter wanted nothing to do with an inside fight. As the rounds progressed, and Mendez increasing got in close, Hitchins would routinely grab him until the ref broke them up.

In the second period, Mendez landed a couple of solid left hooks that seemed to invigorate him. Aside from those blows, success was coming infrequently for him. One of his main problems was trying to walk his opponent down, minus a jab of his own. By repeatedly bulling his way into punching range, the Dominican feasted on a steady diet of jabs.

With the coming of the fifth, Hitchins began unveiling a more diverse arsenal. While still moving fluidly around the ring, the Brooklyn fighter was now landing quality hooks and short uppercuts. Along with the greater array of blows, Hitchins was more willing to engage when in close. This afforded Mendez more chances to score, which is exactly what he did. By far, Mendez’s greatest weapon was the left hook to the head and body.

With the arrival of the seventh, Hitchins somewhat abandoned the in-fighting and was back to utilizing movement. The Money Team fighter easily maintained control over the next couple of rounds. While it was somewhat ugly to watch due to the number of clinches, Mendez enjoyed a decent tenth and final round. He fought hard and pounded Hitchins’ body with a slew of hard hooks. Ultimately however, it was case of too little too late.

Now that Hitchins has the impressive win under his belt, it will be interesting to see who he takes on next.

By: Bakari Simpson

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