Hall of Fame Professional Boxer. He was the World Lightweight Champion from 1912 to 1914. Born Gerhard Steffen, he was enthralled with boxing at an early age and determined to become a prize fighter, after witnessing his idol Jimmy Britt be defeated by Battling Nelson in a Lightweight Championship bout. After turning professional in 1907, it took him five-years to capture the world championship title, when he defeated Ad Wolgast in 16-rounds. Ritchie became one of the greatest counter-punchers in boxing history and reigned Lightweight World Champion for 2-years, until he was defeated by Freddie Welsh in 20-rounds in 1914. He continued to fight for 13 more years and retired in 1927 with a 37 win (9 knockout), 8 loss, 12 drew and 19 no-decision record in 76 bouts. After his career as a boxer, he remained in the sport to serve as California State Commission chief inspector for 25-years. He was inducted posthumously into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004.
Hall of Fame Professional Boxer. He was the World Lightweight Champion from 1912 to 1914. Born Gerhard Steffen, he was enthralled with boxing at an early age and determined to become a prize fighter, after witnessing his idol Jimmy Britt be defeated by Battling Nelson in a Lightweight Championship bout. After turning professional in 1907, it took him five-years to capture the world championship title, when he defeated Ad Wolgast in 16-rounds. Ritchie became one of the greatest counter-punchers in boxing history and reigned Lightweight World Champion for 2-years, until he was defeated by Freddie Welsh in 20-rounds in 1914. He continued to fight for 13 more years and retired in 1927 with a 37 win (9 knockout), 8 loss, 12 drew and 19 no-decision record in 76 bouts. After his career as a boxer, he remained in the sport to serve as California State Commission chief inspector for 25-years. He was inducted posthumously into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004.
Bio by: C.S.
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