Venezuelan contender Albert Ramirez was pushed to the limit in an extremely competitive contest, but ultimately accomplished his mission of defending his crown. In a tactical chess match inside the ring, Ramirez successfully retained his WBA Interim Light Heavyweight World Title with a split-decision victory over dangerous and elusive British challenger Lerrone Richards in Montreal.

The bout featured a constant clash of contrasting styles and produced divided opinions among the judges. After twelve rounds of intense action, two scorecards favored the Venezuelan champion by identical margins of 115-113, while the third judge scored the fight 116-112 for Richards, resulting in a narrow but legitimate victory for the South American titleholder.

From the opening bell, Richards made life difficult by moving brilliantly around the ring, using slick lateral movement and a steady jab to disrupt the champion’s forward momentum. Ramirez, however, never stopped pressing the action and showed tremendous determination throughout the contest.

The key for the champion came during the second half of the fight, when he increased his aggression, cut off the ring more effectively, and landed powerful combinations to the body that gradually slowed the European challenger. With this valuable victory, Ramirez keeps his gold and further solidifies his position among the elite fighters in the 175-pound division.