Dalton Smith Stops Jose Zepeda in 5

Dalton Smith remained undefeated with fifth round stoppage over former three-time world title challenger Jose Zepeda in Sheffield, England.

Zepeda had a nice first two rounds and he was able to dart in and out landing quick combinations and straight lefts. Smith started to get o Zepeda in rounds three and four. Round five saw Smith land a perfect right to the body that sent Zepeda down for the 10-count at 1:25.

Smith, 139.6 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is now 16-0 with 12 knockouts. Zepeda, 139.6 lbs of La Puente, CA is 37-.5

Sandy Ryan Stops Terri Harper After 4; Retains Welterweight Title

Sandy Ryan defended the WBO Welterweight title with a stoppage after round four over former two-division world champion Terri Harper.

Ryan dominated and hurt Harper badly on several occasions. It was clear that Ryan was the boss in the fight and the corner of Harper pulled the plug on the fight following the fourth stanza.

Ryan, 146.2 lbs of Derby, ENG is 7-1-1 with three knockouts. Harper, 145.9 lbs of Denaby Main, ENG is 14-2-2.

Ishmael Davis Decisions Troy Williamson

Ishmael Davis remained undefeated with a 12-round unanimous decision over Troy Williamson in a British Super Welterweight Eliminator.

Davis, 153.8 lbs of Leeds, ENG won by scores of 117-111 and 116-112 twice and is now 13-0. Williamson came in over the 154 lb. weight limit at 158.2 of Darlington, ENG is 20-3-1.

James Flint Outlasts Campbell Hatton

James Flint won a 10-round unanimous decision over Campbell Hatton in a Central Areal Super Lightweight Title bout.

The fight was a war with both guys landing throughout.

In round nine, Flint was cut over his left eye. In round 10, Flint was all over Hatton and the son of the Hall of Famer was hanging on for most of the round.

Flint, 139 lbs of Dorncaster, ENG won by scores of 98-92, 97-94 and 97-95 and is now 14-1-2. Hatton, 138.7 lbs of Hyde, ENG is 14-1.

Leivars Stops Mirga in 9

Nico Leivars stopped Piotr Mirga in round nine of their 10-round super Bantamweight English Title Eliminator.

In round three, Leivars was cut over his right eye from a punch.

In round nine, Leivars landed a perfect left to the body that sent Mirga down for the count of 10 at 1:32.

Leivars, 121.3 lbs of Mansfield, ENG is 6-0-1 with one knockout. Mirga, 121.1 lbs of Southend, ENG is 7-3.

Liam Cameron stopped Hussein Itaba in the opening round of their six-round light heavyweight contest.

In round one, Cameron dropped Itaba with an uppercut. Moments later, it was a left hook tat put Itaba down again. Itaba got to his feet, but the referee stopped the bout at 2:32.

Cameron, 174.8 lbs of Sheffield, ENG is 23-5 with 10 knockouts. Itaba, 173.3 lbs of Dar-Es-Salaam, TAN is 16-9-3.

Leli Buttigieg won a six-round decision over Bartlomiej Stryczek in a super welterweight contest.

In round three, a big right from Buttigieg dropped Stryczek in the corner.

Butigieg, 157,2 lbs of Newham, ENG won by a 60-53 score and is now 3-0. Stryczek, 156 lbs of Bestwina, POL is 2-3.

Conan Murray remained undefeated with a six-round decision over Edgar Kemsky in a middleweight fight.

Murray, 158 lbs of Cusworth, ENG won by a 60-54 score and is now 8-0. Kemsky, 156.6 lbs of Belfast, NI is 3-7-1.




Agyarko and Williamson to fight for WBA Continental belt this Saturday 

Irish Caoimhin Agyarko will face England’s Troy Williamson for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Continental super welterweight belt this Saturday at the SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland. 

Agyarko, a top prospect in the division who has been a regional champion in the past, will be looking for another victory in this Matchroom event which will feature Miachel Conlan taking on Jordan Gill in the main event for the WBA super featherweight international belt. 

The 27-year-old undefeated fighter is strong and knows how to put on a show and will be going into his second fight this year. He is coming off a unanimous decision win over Grant Dennis in his most recent fight in Dublin in May.

Williamson is a 32 years old fighter with good professional experience who has been British champion and has faced good level opponents. The Briton is coming from defeating Ramiro Blanco in his last fight, which was last July 15. 

It should be noted that at the end of 2022 he suffered the only professional loss of his career against Josh Kelly and now he is trying to recover and knows that a victory in this fight could be a catapult to the elite for him. 

Agyarko is undefeated in 13 fights, 7 of them won by knockout. For his part, Williamson has 20 wins, 1 setback, 1 draw and 14 knockouts.




MASSIVE TELEVISION AUDIENCE FOR KELLY’S BRITISH TITLE MASTERCLASS

A massive television audience tuned in to witness Josh Kelly (13-1-1, 7 KOs) capture the British Super Welterweight Title with a dazzling shut-out performance against North East rival Troy Williamson (19-1-1, 14 KOs) on Friday December 2, live and free on Channel 5.
 
‘PBK’ proved his doubters wrong by outwitting the reigning British Champ in front of a raucous crowd at the Utilita Arena in Newcastle. Concerns over the challenger’s stamina were cast aside as the Sunderland man continued to set the pace over the championship rounds, cruising to a spectacular 119-111, 119-109 and 118-110 unanimous decision win. 
 
Channel 5’s coverage of the British Super Welterweight Championship contest between Williamson and Kelly, which also featured former WBO #1 contender Lyndon Arthur (21-1, 15 KOs) back in action and back to his best delivering a devastating stoppage victory over Joel McIntyre (20-5, 5 KOs), attracted an incredible reach of over 1.8million viewers, with an average audience of 552,000 and a peak of 822,000 for the main event.
 
“What an incredible way to end the first year of our partnership with Channel 5,” said Wasserman Head of Global Boxing Kalle Sauerland. “A local derby settled in front of a capacity crowd with the British Super Welterweight crown on the line – all live and free for the British public to enjoy on terrestrial television.
 
“The figures speak for themselves. Boxing continues to be a huge hit with terrestrial television audiences, and we want to continue to deliver breathtaking fights that viewers can enjoy for free.
 
“We saw the re-emergence of a star and one of the most exciting fighters in British boxing right now in Josh Kelly. Josh has a massive future ahead of him and we look forward to some mouth-watering match ups for him, along with the rest of our stable including Lyndon Arthur, Harlem Eubank and Chloe Watson, who have proved they’re ready for title contention. 2023 is going to be a monumental year for Wasserman Boxing!”




KELLY MASTERCLASS CROWNS HIM BRITISH CHAMPION

Last night, it was Josh Kelly’s (12-1-1, 7 KOs) world and we were just living in it. A flawless performance from the Sunderland man saw him make light work of a tremendously gifted opponent in the dethroned Troy Williamson (19-1-1, 14 KOs). However, the British Super Welterweight Championship is making its way to Sunderland with ‘PBK’ after a truly phenomenal performance, scored 118-110, 119-109 and119-111 by the judges, live on Channel 5 from the Utilita Arena, Newcastle.

Kelly was consistently in a ‘flow state’ from the opening bell as he was loose and fluid both defensively and offensively. It was as predicted by fans and pundits as Williamson wasn’t quite prepared for the quick start and vicious speed possessed by his opponent. The left hook from Kelly caused problems throughout the night as it often landed flush whenever thrown, followed by a right uppercut, which proved to be a damning combination.

Williamson never once backed down from the uphill task of trying to keep his belt and close down Kelly. After being dominated in the first round, he was immediately back off his stool to step towards ‘PBK’ and look to shut him down. Kelly proved to be far too switched on for Williamson to land any substantial blows however as the Sunderland man remained confident in circling his opponent from the outside.

The mature performance from the new champion, Kelly, was epitomised in the fifth round as a left hook and right hook had Troy scrambled for a moment. With a slight quiver in his opponent’s legs, Kelly was in no rush to blindly seek a finish. He remained aggressive and aware of any opportunity to present itself, but this was a different fighter existing in his own bubble on the night and he remained in control of his emotions and dictated the bout.

It was more otherworldly moments from Kelly in the seventh round, reincarnating into Muhammad Ali 2.0 briefly as the rope-a-dope style evasion had the arena in awe. His confidence carried him in full control all the way towards the end of the fight as he remained calm, cool and collected with every second of every round.

With questions regarding his gas tank being asked in the build up to this, the eleventh round certainly answered them all as well as the fact he opted to stand between rounds and pace around the ring. He was still spritely, and still so loose and active as he pulled out another tried and tested left hook with a right uppercut. Another mainstay in the fight was Kelly’s movement, constantly snapping jabs at lovely angles to then use his footwork to slide out of the way and leave Williamson turning to find him once again.

In the final round, the Channel 5 commentary team declared this a masterclass from Kelly, which it absolutely was. There was nothing that could have been done on Williamson’s part last night with the type of fighter he faced in front of him. Credit to Williamson who will certainly be back and incredibly likely to hold the Lonsdale belt again having suffered his first defeat in the professional ranks. For Josh Kelly, this is the beginning of something special.

Josh Kelly

“The performance felt that smooth, and that much like it was the way it was supposed to go, I’m saying to Adam “Can you snap me out of this dream”. That was support from all sides tonight with some Middlesbrough fans, some Newcastle fans and some Sunderland fans; but the North East turned out.  This British title means so much to me, oh my god, all that hard work’s paid off baby!”

“What gas tank? That’s cancelled. I feel like I can go and do another five or ten rounds there. I boxed to instructions, boxed clever, boxed safe, boxed tidy and didn’t take no risks; and that’s what the outcome turns out like. Troy was meant to come and do a demolition job on me, he’s a hard-punching knockout artist in the Super Welterweight division. There’s a new name now, there was always the name actually, but it has come into play now. Josh Kelly, baby.”

“A massive happy birthday to my trainer Adam Booth as well. Massive respect to Troy and all his team and fans too, all that online stuff is just online stuff. We’re cool, Troy’s a very hard and strong competitor, but I want to take the time to thank everyone who has stuck behind me and been loyal. My dad, my mum, my family; everybody man.”

“Thank you Channel 5 and everyone for all their support. Merry Christmas everyone, we’re going to have a good one this year.”

Kalle Sauerland

“There’s good boxers, there’s very good boxers, and then there’s special boxers. I’m so proud of Josh, all those critics had their words stuffed right back down their throats after them 12 rounds tonight. The sky is the limit for him, like Adam (Booth) said, he’s not just good he’s special. There’s a reason why there was so much hype surrounding him at the beginning of his career; the hype train is back on.”

“It’s going to be an amazing journey next year, we’re just very excited. I want to enjoy tonight first but there’s huge domestic fights available to us, this is world level though. What we saw tonight was world class. This has been a long time coming, tonight he proved all the doubters wrong in the best possible way. I’m so proud of him, and Adam, absolute professionals in the way they’ve gone about it as always. What Josh did tonight was a masterclass against a very dangerous opponent, do not underestimate him because he’ll be back I’m sure; but Josh Kelly is special.”

Adam Booth

“I’ve said from the first day that he’s the most talented fighter I’ve ever worked with. The only person who beat Josh Kelly up until now was Josh Kelly, he had to overcome monumental mental issues. We have now started to unearth the potential that lies in this man; he is going to be something special.”

“I’m only interested in working with the best, and he’s only interested with being the best.”

Results and images from the Utilita Arena, Newcastle, as Wasserman Boxing presented a night of live and free-to-air boxing on Channel 5, Friday December 2.

Results

British Super Welterweight Championship:
Josh Kelly def. Troy Williamson via decision – 118-110, 119-109 and 119-111

Lyndon Arthur def. Joel McIntyre via stoppage in the second round

Franklin Ignatius def. Hosea Stewart via decision – 58-56

Joe Laws def. Alexander Zeledon via decision – 39-37

Ben Marksby def. Santiago Garces via decision – 59-56

Katharina Thanderz def. Edina Kiss via decision – 78-75

Sheila Martinez def. Jordan Barker-Porter via decision – 60-54

Ewan Mackenzie def. Angel Emilov via decision – 40-36

Bobby Dalton def. Joel Banderas via decision – 40-37

Travis Waters def. Eligio Palacios via decision – 40-36

Adam Reichard def. Claudio Baldomir via decision – 39-38




JUDGEMENT NIGHT: KELLY VS. WILLIAMSON WEIGH-IN

It was the final time the fighters could address each other before all the talking stops, and the action begins tomorrow night. A rowdy crowd entered Newcastle’s Civic Centre to expertly kick off proceedings in preperation for the British Super Welterweight title fight on Friday. ‘Judgement Night’ will see one of these Super Welterweight’s become the North East poster boy, and both Josh Kelly (12-1-1) and current British champion Troy Williamson (19-0-1) were unmoved as they stared each other down before tomorrow night’s event at the Utilita Arena, live on Channel 5, December 2.

Please find detailed below the official images and fighter weights from today’s weigh-in ahead of the free-to-air event live on Channel 5 at 9:00pm tomorrow night, Friday December 2, at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle.
 
British Super Welterweight Championship
(C) TROY WILLIAMSON – 10 STONE / 13 POUNDS / 14 OUNCES
JOSH KELLY – 10 STONE / 13 POUNDS / 10 OUNCES
 
Light Heavyweight – 10 Rounds
LYNDON ARTHUR – 12 STONE / 11 POUNDS / 5 OUNCES
JOEL MCINTYRE – 12 STONE / 10 POUNDS / 13 OUNCES

Heavyweight – 6 Rounds
HOSEA STEWART – 22 STONE / 12 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
FRANKLIN IGNATIUS – 17 STONE / 4 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES

Middleweight – 4 Rounds
EWAN MACKENZIE – 11 STONE / 0 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
ANGEL EMILOV – 11 STONE / 2 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES

Super Welterweight – 4 Rounds
JOE LAWS – 11 STONE / 5 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
ALEXANDER ZELEDON – 11 STONE / 1 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
 
Super Welterweight – 4 Rounds
TRAVIS WATERS – LATER WEIGH-IN SCHEDULED
ELIGIO PALACIOS – LATER WEIGH-IN SCHEDULED

Lightweight – 6 Rounds (2 minutes)
JORDAN BARKER-PORTER – 9 STONE / 8 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
SHEILA MARTINEZ – 9 STONE / 8 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES

Lightweight – 8 Rounds (2 minutes)
KATHARINA THANDERZ – 9 STONE / 10 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
EDINA KISS – 9 STONE / 10 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES

Super Lightweight – 6 Rounds
BEN MARKSBY – 10 STONE / 2 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
SANTIAGO GARCES – 9 STONE / 13 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES

Super Welterweight – 4 Rounds
ROBERT DALTON – 10 STONE / 13 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
JOEL BANDERAS – 10 STONE / 11 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES 

Super Welterweight – 4 Rounds
ADAM REICHARD – 9 STONE / 8 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES
CLAUDIO BALDOMIR – 9 STONE / 10 POUNDS / 0 OUNCES 
 
*Matty Harris has withdrawn from the card due to illness*




JUDGEMENT NIGHT: KELLY VS. WILLIAMSON PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

The intensity increased today at the press conference as both fighters expressed the magnitude of this British Super Welterweight title fight on Friday, ‘Judgement Night’, to decide who reigns king of the North East between Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1) and current British champion Troy Williamson (19-0-1) at the Utilita Arena, live on Channel 5, December 2.

Neither men held back as the respect for each other took a back seat, with both camps launching verbal blows, outlining how the fight will pan out and who the superior fighter is. With the words put to one side, a fierce face-off allowed both men to stare into the opposition’s eyes and see what they’re made of ahead of a monumental moment in the North East. 

Kalle Sauerland

“Good afternoon again, normally the promoter talk is about how big this is, how bad this is, how great this is; but this doesn’t really need much selling. It’s fantastic being involved in such a show, because in my 20 years in boxing the British title is one I haven’t done much of, I’ve done more with World titles and European titles, but I’ve quickly fallen in love with the British title this year. The matches it makes, the fights it throws up; it does our matchmaking job for us. This is the crème de la crème, and the fact we have it in the North East is perfect. We are expecting over two million to watch the Fight on Friday. We have got two gladiators who are going to give it their all – I’m firmly in the Josh corner, but this is an advertisement for our sport, second to none. . It is live and free on Channel 5 on Friday night.”

Adam Booth

“It’s not about the size of this, there won’t be 70,000 people in that arena, but what I see is one of the best matchups, certainly domestically, that I’ve been involved in. Troy Williamson, an excellent amateur and an unbeaten pro, and has proven what he can do. We know exactly what Troy Williamson is, and we’re also supremely confident that people haven’t yet seen what Josh Kelly is yet. It’s a fascinating matchup, I really don’t think there’s been a better fight in British boxing this year, and Channel 5 and its millions of viewers on a free-to-air platform are going to have a great night of entertainment. There’s going to be a spectacular performance and an incredible atmosphere, and as someone who has experience in big events I must say I’m as excited about this as I ever have been about any other fight. I’m looking forward to it.”

“I firmly believe in what I know and what I’ve seen in Josh Kelly.”
 
Troy Williamson
“Preparations have one great, I have been in the Gym for a long while, eleven weeks of working hard and smart, and I’m ready to rock and roll on Friday night.”

“All I need to do is turn up and perform. The hard work has been done, I’m performing well in the gym, and I’m firing on all cylinders. I’m hitting tremendous numbers with my strength and conditioning and even out on runs; I’m in a great position mentally and physically. You’re going to see on fight night.”

“I’ve said it before, I probably don’t need to say it again, but I believe he lacks heart. I feel it’s bred in people, one thing’s for certain is that it’s bred in me, but we’re going to see on Friday if Josh has got it because I’m going to take him to deep waters. He’s in for a tough night.”

“I’m not necessarily going in there to try and take him out. A lot of people underestimate my boxing skills, I’ve been apart of Team GB and boxed elite amateurs around the world, so don’t underestimate my boxing. I can box, and don’t for a moment think I can’t out-box Josh Kelly.”

“I wouldn’t say there’s bad blood, but everyone is tuning in to see me though. Let me ask Josh one thing, how many tickets have you sold?”

Josh Kelly responds, “I don’t know, I’ve only sold a handful I think. For Troy it’s about how much he’s liked and the popularity online. Look, is it about how many tickets you sell and how much you’re liked? I’m me, I’ll do me.”
 
Josh Kelly

“I’d like to see him out-box me on the night, 100%. If he wants to try and box me that’ll be good, he’ll be a silly man to do that but I think it’s going to go how I want it to go on the night. I cannot wait to lace them boots up, get them gloves on, and get dancing in that ring.”

“All of the pressure is on Troy. I’ve operated at top levels, I’ve boxed at Madison Square Gardens, I’ve been with ex-world champions. I know exactly what these big events are like with the pressure it brings; when he walks to that ring he’s going to feel it on Friday night.”

“If you look at Troy, then look at me, there’s things I do better. Let me ask Troy, when it gets to the sixth round, and I’ve still got the gas tank, and I’m firing on all cylinders, and when I’m still boxing unbelievably; what are you going to do then?”

Troy Williamson responds, “Ask Ted Cheeseman.”

Josh Kelly Continues, “You see that there, no intelligent response. One sandwich short of a picnic sums it up really.”

“Stylistically it’s a great matchup. Troy comes forward and tries to fight, I box, so it makes for good television. When you go and watch fights you either like the fighter or you like the boxer, and I think that’s why everyone wants to tune in.”

“When I’ve thought about this fight, I’ve seen Troy hurt.”

Kalle Sauerland

Let me put this to both of these gladiators, the eyes of the boxing nation will be on you, it’s a hugely anticipated fight where the atmosphere is going to be red hot. Josh you’ve fought on big shows before, Troy you’ve done the same but a little less.  

Troy Williamson responds, “How is it a little bit less? I’ve fought on big shows and delivered every single time.”

Josh Kelly responds, “Madison Square Gardens.”

Troy Williamson responds, “Every time you have stepped up, you’ve failed.”

Josh Kelly responds, “You’re stepping up to me mate, you know that. You’re stepping up to me.

Kalle Sauerland continues, “It’s not just a British title, but it’s a fight for your right. The winner goes on to fight for world honours. For the loser, I don’t think this would be the end, but it would be a much longer road back. It makes it so much harder to lose on a stage like this. It’s different losing in a small venue, off tv, than losing on an occasion like this. Especially when it’s the bragging rights of the North East at stake. This is THE biggest British matchup of the year, and I’m looking forward to seeing it all ringside.

PLEASE FIND ALL IMAGES BELOW: JUDGEMENT NIGHT PRESS CONFERENCE IMAGES
CREDIT: WASSERMAN BOXINGWilliamson vs. Kelly for the British Super Welterweight Championship will top a huge night of boxing in the North-East on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle. Former Commonwealth and WBO Inter-Continental Light-Heavyweight champion ‘King’ Lydon Arthur (20-1, 14 KOs) fights against ‘El toro’ Joel McIntyre (20-4, 5 KOs) in this North East extravaganza. The big men settle the score in Hosea Stewart vs. Franklin Ignatius II, with ‘Magic’ Matty Harris looks to continue his destructive stoppage win streak. Former world champion Katharina Thanderz (14-1, 2 KOs), local rising star Ben Marksby (5-0) and Newcastle’s Jordan Barker-Porter (5-1, 1 KO) all feature on this massive evening of action. Super Welterweight prospect Bobby Dalton (2-0), a debut for Super Welterweight Travis Walker, Jarrow’s Ewan Mckenzie (5-0, 3 KOs) and Super Middleweight Joe Laws (12-2, 5 KOs) are also added to make up a stacked card. Co-promoted by Wasserman Boxing and Probellum in association with William Hill and Infinitum Entertainment, all the action will be shown live and free on Channel 5.




‘IN TROUBLE’ – TROY WILLIAMSON WARNS BRITISH TITLE RIVAL JOSH KELLY 

LONDON, NOVEMBER 29 – Troy Williamson wants “no excuses” from Josh Kelly after the dust settles on their British title fight.

Williamson puts his super welterweight belt on the line against Kelly in Newcastle on Friday night and has warned his North East rival that he is in “trouble”.

A confident Kelly has predicted he will dethrone ‘Trojan’ by knockout, but Williamson is at a loss as why his challenger believes he can stop him.

Instead, the champion has reiterated his long-held belief that he will wear Kelly down in the second half of the fight, questioning his opponent’s “heart” and resilience.

“All fighters are confident, and he believes in himself, so good luck to him, but I don’t have a clue why he thinks he’s knocking me out!” Williamson told Probellum.com.

“Maybe his mental coach is putting things into his head, and he is believing it.

“I’m just hoping for the best Josh Kelly on Friday night so that there are no excuses.”

“Josh cuts easily and I don’t think he has a huge heart,” he added. 

“When it gets deep and tough, I think he will fold under the pressure.  When the going gets tough, Josh Kelly gets himself out of there.

“Twelve rounds is a long time to box and move.  I’m not stupid, I know he is going to be really, really tricky for the first four or five rounds, but once we get past them, then he is in trouble.”

During intense exchanges, when filming a face-off, Kelly said the pressure was all on Williamson, but the title holder dismissed the claims.

“Despite what he says, there is no pressure on me,” Williamson said. 

“He’s put pressure on himself by saying he’s going to win by KO.  But let Josh say what he wants because on Friday night, it’ll just be me and him in the ring, and let’s see what he says when he’s being punched in the face.”

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KELLY: “JOSH KELLY BEING THE BRITISH WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION HAS A NICE RING TO IT”

The British Super Welterweight title bout will be decided this Friday December 2 on ‘Judgement Night’ in Newcastle when Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1) looks to dethrone current champion Troy Williamson (19-0-1) at the Utilita Arena, live on Channel 5.

Kelly holds the WBO International Super Welterweight title following his unanimous decision win over Lucas Bastida back in July, which prompted the beginning of this bout igniting when he squared off with Williamson in the ring post-fight and showed his desire to take the Darlington man’s Lonsdale belt.

Following a good training camp, Kelly is confident he is in the best condition to end his opponent’s unbeaten record. Williamson is a tremendously talented athlete, but all of the hours committed to the gym are something that ‘PBK’ and his team believe guarantee him a win on Friday night.

“Camp has been nothing short of phenomenal. Every ounce of my being has gone into this fight and what the reward is at the end of it all will make it worth it. I’m used to sacrifice but i have taken it to new heights this time around,” said Kelly.

“I’ve always been a professional and treated my preparations in a way that reflects that, but this is an improved Josh Kelly that is going to tick the British Title off his Christmas list before going on to challenge the world’s best.”

His relationship with coach Adam Booth has been integral in Kelly’s renaissance that has seen him stop Peter Kramer within four rounds in June of this year, along with his win over Bastida the following month.

Booth has made constant appearances alongside some of the country’s greatest boxers and world champions like former WBA heavyweight champion David Haye, along with George Groves, and Kelly is looking to be the next name to such a list. As much as the coach will only want to be a part of someone they have full faith in, Kelly sees his trainer as a tremendously important part of going on to reach the pinnacle of his division.

“What Adam provides is more than just all of his unmatched knowledge and tactics regarding boxing; he lets you know your worth,” said Kelly.

“My self-confidence is never lacking but having a man who is only accustomed to world champion boxers investing the time in you makes you realise what level you are on personally. I have top level facilities and a top-level coach, and you’ll see a top-level performance on Friday night.”

Williamson defeated Ted Cheeseman and then Mason Cartwright to set up this huge clash. Since he fought the latter, he added another win to his record as he stopped David Benitez back in September. Despite this form, Kelly is confident he can take Williamson’s belt, as well his the ‘0’ that sits on the Darlington man’s undefeated record.

“Josh Kelly being the British Super Welterweight Champion has a nice ring to it.”

“Of course I’m confident. I’ve been preparing my whole life for big nights and I’ve already experienced plenty of them too,” continued Kelly. “This is exactly where I want to be and just the first of many belts to add to the collection.”

There is going to be a fairy-tale night in store for one of these athletes, and speaking to Kelly will absolutely make you believe it is going to be the man from Sunderland. This fight lends itself to being the catalyst in the next phase of Kelly’s career, and this is the perfect stage to kickstart the hunt for world honours once again.

“The champion of my country, in my home of the North East, the script is written for a dream night.”

Williamson vs. Kelly for the British Super Welterweight Championship will top a huge night of boxing in the North-East on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle. ‘Magic’ Matty Harris looks to continue his destructive stoppage win streak. Former world champion Katharina Thanderz (14-1, 2 KOs), local rising star Ben Marksby (5-0) and Newcastle’s Jordan Barker-Porter (5-1, 1 KO) all feature on this massive evening of action. Super Welterweight prospect Bobby Dalton (2-0), a debut for Super Welterweight Travis Walker, Jarrow’s Ewan Mckenzie (5-0, 3 KOs) and Super Middleweight Joe Laws (12-2, 5 KOs) are also added to make up a stacked card. Co-promoted by Wasserman Boxing and Probellum in association with William Hill and Infinitum Entertainment, all the action will be shown live and free on Channel 5.




NORTH-EAST ‘JUDGEMENT NIGHT’ ANNOUNCES A STACKED CARD FOR WILLIAMSON VS. KELLY ON DECEMBER 3

Aaron Chalmers (1-0) and huge Heavyweight ‘Magic’Matty Harris (3-0, 2 KOs) feature alongside North-East’s rising stars on the epic card headlined by the British Super Welterweight Championship between Darlington’s Troy Williamson (19-0-1, 14KOs) and Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1, 7 KOs) on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle, live on Channel 5.

This monumental North-East night of action includes hometown favourite Aaron Chalmers (1-0) on the bill as he makes his Newcastle boxing debut on his second professional fight. The former Geordie Shore star and MMA fighter came through his first fight against Alexander Zeledon in Liverpool on June 17, and looks to build on the experiences of that points win in front of his home crowd.

Chalmers will be one of the many talented fighters who command huge support in the North-East, as he enters the squared-circle once more. With the cobwebs dusted off, and the pressure of his debut handled with, it is an ideal opportunity for Chalmers to produce a calculated performance now he is accustomed to fight nights in professional boxing.

Standing in the way of his fairy-tale win is “Rocky” Ryan Broten (0-1). Broten was involved in an all or nothing encounter with the undefeated Paddy Lacey on his pro debut as fight-ending shots were thrown from the very beginning. Broten will now be looking to upset the home crowd as he takes on the former reality star and Geordie favourite, but Chalmers believes a more complete performance will see him do the job.

“The debut got the ball rolling with things, and to come through it with the win and no damage taken was something I’m obviously pleased with,” said Chalmers. “I kept my head and remained calm, but i know what level I can box at, and this huge Newcastle card is my chance to show my progression in the ring.”

“The fans can expect me to come into this calculated yet ready to end things when the opportunity presents itself. I’ve never been the fighter to let things go the distance, and if I can get a knockout win in Newcastle then both me and the fans will be happy people.”

“Newcastle is where i made my name, it’s the place that moulded me into who I am. I know the people, I’m one of the people, and the fans are going to blow the rough off the place.”

Big hitting Heavyweight ‘Magic’ Matty Harris is on the hunt for a third first-round KO win in a row when he takes on Jiri Surmaj over six rounds. Harris put Mait Metsis down twice in the opening round, before ending proceedings in the first round of the fight in Newcastle on April 2. The same destructive formula worked again two months later in Liverpool when Harris produced more magic by flattening Pawel Strykowski with a trademark poleaxing punch.

Standing in the way of the Coventry man’s hat-trick is Surmaj, the hard-hitting Czech Republican who has had an active year claiming two stoppage wins and a split decision victory throughout this calendar year. It will have to be more highlight-reel stuff from Harris as he looks to continue making statements and become the first man to stop Surmaj.

“Newcastle is going to be a massive night of boxing, especially for me,” said Harris. “It’s a step up in competition, but I’ve been stepping up in the gym every single time I enter it. There’s some viral knockouts on my record already, and i’m still young, so just wait and see what the future holds for me.”

Darlington’s Ben Marksby (5-0) can continue his undefeated streak at Super Lightweight when he makes it back-to-back appearances in the North-East. A rising star who continues to add numbers to his loyal following, Marksby faced off against the resilient Rustem Fatkhullin in Newcaslte on July 30 this year where he produced a flawless points win, claiming every round. Marksby has a tendency to target supremacy in each round of his fights as he is impressively yet to drop a round in his career having claimed all 22 of the rounds he has competed in.

The 23-year-old has rightfully earned the title as one of the North-East’s rising stars, and the Super Lightweight could yet add another accolade to his professional career if he claims his first professional stoppage against former African boxing champion Olaide Fijabi (16-5, 8 KOs). Fijabi is a dangerous Nigerian fighter, whose recent losses have only come in the way of talented opposition like the undefeated Jack Rafferty and the talented James Moorcroft.

Fijabi also competed in a tremendous battle with Tom Farrell on June 17, 2022, narrowly losing on the scorecards, 58-57, at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. The dangerous African power-puncher will hope the North-East can host his second win of 2022 however, having claimed his first win by beating Temitope Agboola by unanimous decision in his home country of Nigeria.

“I can’t wait to perform on another big event like this, it just gives me the chance to continue making my name and show the boxing fans i’m a man on a mission,” said Darlington’s Marksby.

“I’m still very young for a boxer, but i know it’ll take blood, sweat and tears throughout every part of my career to reach levels i know i’m destined to reach. I’m coming to put on another display, and i can guarantee the Utilita Arena will be getting their money’s worth.”

Norway’s former world champion, Katharina Thanderz (14-1, 2 KOs) looks to put herself back into title contention with a big win against someone who has shared the ring with multiple world champions, Hungary’s Edina Kiss (15-16, 9 KOs). Thanderz had a blistering start to life as professional as she went unbeaten for over three years and across 13 fights, winning the vacant European Super-Featherweight, the WBC International Lightweight and the European female lightweight titles.

She achieved world honours on November 16, 2019, when she moved to 13-0 against Danila Ramos and won the vacant WBC Interim Super-Featherweight title. This set Thanderz up for a star-studded clash with Britain’s Terri Harper, where the WBC and IBO Super-Featherweight titles would be put on the line. The fight went all the way to the depths in a tremendous female war with Harper claiming the win in the ninth round.

Immediately bouncing back, Thanderz showed her dominance with a six-round decision win on May 13, 2022, in London, and now looks to make another statement to get a shot at reclaiming world titles once more against the heavy-hitting Edina Kiss. Kiss fights for the second time in England, and for the first time in the North-East.

The nine knockouts on the record of Kiss will keep Thanderz’s wits about her throughout the contest. Alongside her power, Kiss’s experience will be another tool in her arsenal having fought former world champion Amanda Serrano twice, as well as the likes of Maureen Shea, Sophie Alisch and Shannon O’Connell.

“I’ve never been to Newcastle before, but I always feel excited about fighting in the UK. The boxing fans are always very supportive,” said Thanderz.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting Edina Kiss in the ring, she’s a warrior that has fought with many fantastic fighters and I can’t wait to put on a great performance on December 2.”

“I want to fight for a world title again, and that means fighting the best possible opposition.”

Jordan Barker-Porter (5-1, 1 KO) returns to Newcastle as she looks to make it five-straight wins in a row. The 28-year-old Lightweight starred in her last bout at the Vertu Motors arena in Newcastle on July 30 where she stopped Bec Connelly in round five during an all-British battle. Barker-Porter steps up in competition once more as she pursues Lightweight title opportunities; Sheila Martinez (3-3, 1 KO) will look to halt any chances of that on December 3 at the Utilita Arena.

The hungry 24-year-old Spaniard could claim a statement win if she can overcome Barker-Porter in her own back yard and with an equal amount of stoppages on their professional records, Barker-Porter will have to be wary of Martinez’s energy. The Spanish lightweight will be feeling confident off the back of dominating in an eight-round fight against Eva Cantos back in July, as well as claiming her first stoppage victory in March of this year. Barker-Porter is undeterred about the task at hand and knows her skillset and support will see her over the line.  

“A victory against Martinez will make it five wins in a row for me and continues moving me closer to lightweight honours. She’s got stopping power, she’s young, and she’ll want to come and try and take my moment” said Barker-Porter.

“Newcastle is my home, I am proud to be representing the North-East. I know with the crowd behind me, I’ll have more than enough on the night to get the people off their seats and my hand raised.”

Also featuring on the card is 24-year-old Super Welterweight prospect Bobby Dalton (2-0) as he continues his promising start to professional life, and a professional debut for Super Welterweight Travis Walker as he tests himself early against the well-schooled Nicaraguan Alexander Zeledon.

Jarrow’s Ewan Mckenzie (5-0, 3 KOs) hunts down a fourth consecutive stoppage at Middleweight too, with Super Middleweight Joe Laws (12-2, 5 KOs) looking to bounce back with a big win in front of his fellow North-East people.

Williamson vs. Kelly for the British Super Welterweight Championship will top a huge night of boxing in the North-East on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle. Aaron Chalmers fights on home turf, as ‘Magic’ Matty Harris looks to continue his destructive stoppage win streak. Former world champion Katharina Thanderz (14-1, 2 KOs), local rising star Ben Marksby (5-0) and Newcastle’s Jordan Barker-Porter (5-1, 1 KO) all feature on this massive evening of action. Super Welterweight prospect Bobby Dalton (2-0), a debut for Super Welterweight Travis Walker, Jarrow’s Ewan Mckenzie (5-0, 3 KOs) and Super Middleweight Joe Laws (12-2, 5 KOs) are also added to make up a stacked card. Co-promoted by Wasserman Boxing and Probellum in association with William Hill and Infinitum Entertainment, all the action will be shown live and free on Channel 5.




TROY WILLIAMSON VS. JOSH KELLY: ‘JUDGEMENT NIGHT’ LAUNCH PRESS CONFERENCE QUOTES

Heating debate over British gold began as talk of ending careers erupted during today’s launch conference ahead of the epic North East battle for the British Super Welterweight Championship confirmed between Darlington’s Troy Williamson (19-0-1, 14KOs) and Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1, 7 KOs) at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle on Friday December 2live on Channel 5.

Please see below for quotes and image access from today’s event:

Troy Williamson:
This is the fight I wanted. I like Josh, we’ve travelled together when we did the junior stuff, but it’s a business at the end of the day, and we’ll be getting down to business on December 2.

I think Josh has had a good ride, and I don’t think he’s anywhere near done regardless of some people saying he might be; he’s still only a young lad. He had a lot of hype about him at the start of his career, but I don’t think he’s propelled as much as people thought he was going to. Now he’s fighting for the British title, and it’s time for me to end his career. I do believe that I will do that.

Josh Kelly:
100% confident, I think this fight has come at a perfect time for me. I’ve boxed on big events, and I’ve been under the bright lights before, so I know what this feels like. I’m more experienced in that department and I know it’s my time now to go and take this British title with both hands.

The North East is quite a small place so you get good sparring where you can. Troy was good sparring, and we came through Team GB where we saw a lot of each other. I know the level of skill and desire I possess which makes this the perfect fight and perfect timing for me to take this. I’m raring to go.

That British title is something that means a lot to anyone in this country. My eyes are also on the big, world titles as well so to get there you have to beat the likes of Troy Williamson.

Ending my career? No that can’t happen. I’m only 28-years-old and I’m still young in this sport and Troy is older, so me winning this British title could be the flip side of what he sees and I could be the one who ends his career. Where is he going after I take that title? There’s not many options for him, and it’s going to be an enjoyable night for me, let me tell you.

Kalle Sauerland:
Two guys, two gladiators, who absolutely love it. I struggle to think of areas of the world, let alone in the UK, where sports means more to them than the North East. It’s going to be a packed house, and the great thing is that it’s for the British title. Something that is so pure in this sport, and naturally leads to bigger things.

You talk about final eliminators, or big fights that break you out onto the world scene, the winner on December 2 WILL have that breakthrough; that’s a given. The reward for these two getting through a very hard training camp will be the platform of Channel 5, a nationwide audience, screened to countries around the world. It’s a huge fight that I believe will not only determine the careers of these fighters, but will entertain the entire nation. I’m just extremely excited to be back in the North East on December 2.

I remember looking at the situation as a fan from the outside, and I’ve never seen a fighter who was built up like a rocket and launched to 100 like he was. He took one loss early in his career just like many world champions I’ve promoted before, Wladimir Klitschko lost multiple times before going on to defend his heavyweight belts for a decade. I thought Josh losing once early in his career was exaggerated, it was a bit like the end of the sun and the moon all at once. Josh Kelly then is a completely different fighter to Josh Kelly now. The great thing about this British title fight is that it’s a true step forward for one of these, but ultimately we know what Josh can do. He’s in the hands of Adam Booth, who I rate as one of the best trainers over the past decades, and I have complete faith in them.

Sam Jones:
As soon as the fight started to get mentioned I think Troy rang everybody he could to get this fight on. Everybody loves these big domestic fights. I’ve known Troy a long time and he has never turned any opponent down, and he wasn’t going to start with Josh Kelly.

There’s a lot of big fights not happening in boxing at the minute for one reason or another,  but both guys need a lot of credit for making this fight happen because they could have very easily gone down separate routes. They both took the fight, I fully expect Troy to win, and it’s going to be a fantastic atmosphere. I’ve been involved in a few fights up in the North East and they really back their own whether it’s football or any other sport, I just want them to back the event and make sure they come out because it’s going to be a special night for the North East.

Troy is always in entertaining fights. He hasn’t tasted a defeat yet, but win, lose, or draw; he’s in entertaining fights. I believe all the pressure is on Josh in this fight. No one should be judged on one defeat, and Josh Kelly is a good boxer who still may go on to big things. However, if you look at what people thought he would achieve when he first started then you’d say he hasn’t hit them heights. If you look at the bookies favourite for this, I’d say it’s probably Kelly. When it gets hard in there though, Troy gets better.

Adam Booth:
This has come at the right time for the fans especially, they’re two fighters who are both in their prime. They’re two guys who want to test themselves and see how good they can be and put themselves against the best; so this is definitely a match made in heaven.

There was no hesitation from our side. I had a call from the boxing board of control to say they’re putting out some nominations and do we want the fight? I phoned Josh who straight away said yes; it took less than five minutes to get this confirmed with the board.




TROY WILLIAMSON VS. JOSH KELLY PRE-SALE TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!

‘Judgement Night’ pre-sale tickets for the epic North-East battle for the British Super Welterweight Championship between Darlington’s Troy Williamson (19-0-1, 14KOs) and Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1, 7 KOs) at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle on Friday December 2, live on Channel 5, are now on sale!

Kelly expressed his desire to compete for Williamson’s Lonsdale belt as the two came face-to-face in July after ‘PBK’ beat Lucas Bastida to claim the WBO International Super Welterweight Title on July 30 at Newcastle’s Vertu Arena.
 
With the champion equally keen to get the fight on, Williamson since added a win of his own to his undefeated record as he stopped David Benitez in the sixth round on September 17 at the University of Bolton Stadium live on Channel 5.

PRE-SALE TICKETS CAN BE FOUND AT THE BELOW LINK:
 PRE-SALE TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW!




WILLIAMSON AND KELLY FACE OFF IN NORTH EAST ‘JUDGEMENT NIGHT’ ON DECEMBER 2 IN NEWCASTLE

It’s title time on the Tyne, with the epic North-East battle for the British Super Welterweight Championship confirmed between Darlington’s Troy Williamson (19-0-1, 14KOs) and Sunderland’s Josh Kelly (12-1-1, 7 KOs) at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle on Friday December 2, live on Channel 5.
 
Kelly expressed his desire to compete for Williamson’s Lonsdale belt as the two came face-to-face in July after ‘PBK’ beat Lucas Bastida to claim the WBO International Super Welterweight Title on July 30 at Newcastle’s Vertu Arena.
 
With the champion equally keen to get the fight on, Williamson since added a win of his own to his undefeated record as he stopped David Benitez in the sixth round on September 17 at the University of Bolton Stadium live on Channel 5.
 
“We’re two fighters flying the flag for the North East, but only one of us holds that British title,” said Williamson. “Every fight is going to be a tough fight at this level, especially when belts are on the line.
 
“I’m the champ, I’m undefeated, and I don’t think there’s anything he can throw at me that’ll stop my reign as Super Welterweight king as I move on to bigger and better things.  One thing is for sure, and that’s fireworks.”
 
“This is set to be one of the North-East’s biggest fights in recent memory, and you can see exactly why,” said Kelly.
 
“Troy is British Champion for a reason and he’s obviously a good fighter. However, he’s just another obstacle in the way of me achieving what I’m destined to achieve, and he’ll be taken care of on December 2.”
 
After producing a stoppage win over Ted Cheeseman to become the British Champion in October of last year, Williamson has since defended his title against Mason Cartwright to set up this hugely anticipated clash against Kelly.

“The last time we ventured to the North-East, the people clearly showed their passion and love for boxing,” saidWasserman’s Head of Global Boxing, Kalle Sauerland.
 
“This time it is on another level as we bring one of the most hotly anticipated domestic dust-ups available. Two of the North-East’s own battling it out to boast the title of Britain’s best. Newcastle is about to host one of its biggest nights in the sport, and I cannot wait to be in the arena for an electric atmosphere come fight night.”

Williamson vs Kelly  for the British Super Welterweight Championship tops a huge night of boxing in the North-East on Friday December 2 at the Utilita Arena, Newcastle with more major fights to be announced soon. Promoted by Wasserman Boxing in association with William Hill and Infinitum Entertainment, all the action will be shown live and free on Channel 5.
 

Sign up for ticket alerts at WassermanBoxing.com




TROY WILLIAMSON TO DEFEND BRITISH TITLE AGAINST JOSH KELLY

LONDON, SEPTEMBER 17 – Troy Williamson and Josh Kelly will collide in a British title fight that fans have been craving.

Williamson puts his super welterweight crown on the line against former amateur star Kelly in December, on a massive night of boxing in Newcastle. 

The British champion overcame David Benitez in Bolton this evening to rubber-stamp the title showdown, with the date and venue to be confirmed in due course. 

The mouth-watering clash pits North East rivals against each other with Darlington’s Williamson defending his British belt for a second time, against Sunderland hero Kelly. 

Probellum fighter Williamson is one of the most exciting fighters in British boxing after engaging in back-to-back Fight of the Year contenders and his clash with Kelly promises to be a domestic dust-up you do not want to miss. 

The ‘Trojan’ is on a roll after title wins over Ted Cheeseman and Mason Cartwright while ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly has been rebuilding his career after a punishing defeat to David Avanesyan last year. 

Williamson was left deeply unimpressed with his rival’s last performance and has promised to wear down and stop the 2016 Olympian. 

Troy Williamson said: “I’m so happy Josh has agreed to fight me because this is a monster of a fight for British boxing and it will be shown live to a huge television audience. 

“But Josh, mark my words, you have made a huge mistake because you have never faced anyone like me, and I will grind you down and stop you. 

“Your Olympic pedigree will count for nothing when the going gets tough and I drag you into deep waters.” 

Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, said: “There is no question about Troy Williamson’s status as one of Britain’s most exciting fighters because he delivers drama by the bucket load. “And this brilliant British title fight with Josh Kelly promises to be another Fight of the Year contender to add to Troy’s collection. “I was ringside to see Troy get up off the floor and defeat Cartwright on points at Probellum Throwdown and I know this will surpass that fight for action and entertainment.” 

To keep up to date with the latest news on Williamson vs Kelly, sign up to our newsletter?or follow Probellum on?Instagram,?Twitter?and?Facebook.???? 

You can also follow our official news, results, and information account, Probellum News, on Twitter.?? 

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promoter, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Following the success of the opening two shows in December 2021, Probellum held back-to-back world championship nights in Dubai as well as a packed card in Newcastle.

The world title action then headed to Liverpool last month where Paul Butler won the WBO bantamweight crown.

Probellum’s elite stable of fighters also includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Sunny Edwards, Eimantas Stanionis, Donnie Nietes and Dina Thorslund.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack, Shabaz Masoud and Spencer Wilcox among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.




TROY WILLIAMSON TO BATTLE BENITEZ IN BOLTON

The undefeated Troy Williamson (18-0-1, 13 KOs) joins Wasserman Boxing’s Fight Night as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Saturday September 17 at the University of Bolton Stadium, live on Channel 5 from 9:30pm.

In his way stands another ‘El Yacare’, or ‘The Alligator’, but this time it is in the form of David Benitez ( (8-7, 2 KOs) and not Walter ‘El Yacare’Sequeira (25-9-1, 17 KOs) who faces off against Lyndon Arthur (19-1, 13 KOs) in the main event of the evening.

A fight that has come in to replace Nathan Gorman (19-1, 13 KOs), who is continuing to focus on his British title preparations as mandatory for the heavyweight title against Fabio Wardley, Williamson is excited ahead of his Bolton appearance on the Channel 5 card.

Darlington’s Williamson is prepared to run through every wall to get to his ideal North East bout against Josh ‘Pretty Boy’ Kelly (12-1-1). After a succesful defence of his Lonsdale belt, he can’t wait to dust off his gloves and get the wheels back in motion ahead of the potential fight with the Newcastle’s Kelly.

“Everyone knows I’ve got my sights set on a fight with Josh Kelly and so this contest in Bolton on Saturday night is the perfect opportunity to sharpen my tools,” said Williamson. “I have no doubt that Josh will be watching my performance closely and I can’t wait to get back in the ring and fight for the first time since my British title defence in March.”

Wasserman Boxing presents Lyndon Arthur’s (19-1, 13 KOs) explosive return to the squared circle as he looks to tame the tough Argentine, Walter Gabriel Sequeira (25-9-1) at Light Heavyweight. A fiery all-Welsh British Lightweight title affair will also feature between current champion Gavin Gwynne (15-2, 3 KOs) and Newport’s Craig Woodruff (12-6, 4 KOs), as well as “Trojan” Troy Williamson (18-0-1, 13 KOs) putting on the battle armour as part of a huge night of free-to-air boxing on Saturday September 17 at the University of Bolton Stadium, live on Channel 5 from 9:30pm.




Sam Gilley: Defend my English title, then British title next!

English super-welterweight champion Sam Gilley is eyeing a showdown against British champion Troy Williamson – provided he can overcome Drew Brown on Friday’s huge #MTKFightNight.
This week’s stacked show is headlined by a British and Commonwealth lightweight title fight between Gavin Gwynne and Luke Willis and takes place at York Hall in London, and will be broadcast live in the US on ESPN+ in association with Top Rank and worldwide on IFL TV.

Gilley (13-1, 6 KOs) is making the first defence of his English title when he goes up against undefeated Brown (12-0, 1 KO), and the reigning champion hopes that a victory can lead to a crack at the British title next.

Gilley said: “Winning the English title meant absolutely everything to me, as my desire to be a professional boxer started from when I was 11. I’ve always had the same goal and when I turned professional I wanted to do it step by step.

“I wanted the Southern Area, then the English, and then the British. I won the English title on three weeks’ notice, and that was special. I’ve been able to say I’m the champion of England, and next I’d love the British title.

“I always said I want to go the traditional route, and if I win the British title after this, then that’s the full collection at domestic level, so that would be great.

“First it’s Drew Brown though, and that’s where my focus is. He’s taller than me, and it’s the first fight I’ve had where that’s the case. It will be a feeling out process for about 30 seconds or so, and then we’ll go to work. 

“I think we’ll get the stoppage. Me and my trainer Rod Julian have put together a good game plan, and I think my experience will tell on the night.”

Elsewhere on Friday’s card, Nina Hughes takes on Bec Connolly, plus Sultan Zaurbek, Pierce O’Leary, Carl Fail, Elliot Whale, Dean Richardson, Paul Ryan and Jimmy Croxson are all in action.

Stay up to date by subscribing to our weekly newsletter HERE and on social media @mtkglobal




Probellum Throwdown Live – Pat McCormack wins on debut as Troy Williamson keeps belt in classic

NEWCASTLE, MARCH 25 – Pat McCormack announced himself as a professional with a vicious first round knockout win on his debut

The Olympic silver medallist landed a left hook to the body of Justin Menzie with just over 90 seconds left of the opening round at Probellum Throwdown in Newcastle.

Menzie was in agony from the expertly placed shot and was unable to beat the referee’s count.

McCormack’s huge home support at the Utilita Arena went wild and chanted ‘There’s only one Pat McCormack’ as they celebrated his perfect introduction to the paid ranks.

“I’m very happy, it was a good performance in front of all of these amazing fans,” McCormack said.

“Getting a first round stoppage on my debut, I couldn’t be happier.”

Earlier in the night, Troy Williamson dragged himself off the floor to out-point Mason Cartwright and retain his British super-welterweight title in a fight of the year contender.

Williamson was sent to the canvas in round two by the challenger and looked in big trouble in the early stages but the 30-year-old dug in to win scores of 116-111, 117-112 and 114-113 on the judges’ scorecards.

The Darlington man won the belt in a classic with Ted Cheeseman last year and delivered yet more drama in front of a frenzied crowd at the Utilita Arena.

“What a fight, what a fight!” said Sam Jones, Head of Talent Relations at Probellum.

“Huge credit to Mason.  I thought some of the scorecards were too wide, I had it by one round for Troy, but what a fight.”

Cartwright said: “This was my first 12 rounder and we’ve just had a great fight – maybe we can do it again?”

Mark Dickinson picked up a valuable six rounds against the tough Hungarian Peter Kramer, winning 60-54 on the scorecard, and said: “He was a tough guy with a winning record so it was good to get the rounds in.

“These are the kind of fights I want, and you don’t see many fighters my age, in their third fight, going in with guys who have winning records.

“I want to say a big thank-you to the North East fans, they are the best fans in the country.”

Dickinson, a gym-mate of McCormack,  is now 3-0.
 
UNDERCARD RESULTS:
Thomas Patrick Ward 100-90 Alexis Boureima Kabore

Ben Rees R1 technical draw Greg O’Neill

Joe Laws 57-58 Alexey Tukhtarov

Robert Ismay won TKO R4 Christian Adjoufack

Joe Maphosa 60-54 Santiago el Eusibio

Stephen Sayers won TKO R2 Darly Sharp

Alex Farrell 60-54 Konstantin Alexandrov
 

About Probellum???
Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Probellum’s elite stable of international fighters includes Nonito Donaire, Regis Prograis, Estelle Mossely, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Dina Thorslund and Muhammad Waseem.

But the company has also recruited the next generation of stars with Peter McGrail, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack and Shabaz Masoud among the young talents under the Probellum umbrella.

Since launching, Probellum has also signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including DiBella Entertainment (US), Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).?




NORTH-EAST TRIO HEADLINE PACKED CARD AS PROBELLUM HEADS TO NEWCASTLE

London – 28 January 2022 – Global boxing promotion Probellum will host its first UK show of 2022 in Newcastle in March, jointly headlined by local fighters Lewis Ritson, Troy Williamson and Thomas Patrick Ward, with the hugely talented duo Pat McCormack and Ben Rees set to make their professional debuts.
 
Taking place at the Utilita Arena, on Friday March 25, Probellum returns to the north-east following its sell out inaugural UK show in Sunderland in December.
 
The upcoming event features some of British boxing’s biggest and brightest talents, with tickets available to purchase via Ticketmaster from today (Friday January 28).
 
Newcastle-born Ritson (22-2, 13 knockouts) will be back in action after defeating Christian Uruzquieta with a brilliant performance in December. This time around he faces Dejan Zlaticanin (24-3, 16 knockouts), an experienced Serbian fighter.
 
Having signed to Probellum last month, Williamson (17-0-1, 13 knockouts), from Darlington, aims to maintain his unbeaten record in what will be the first defence of his British super-welterweight title, which he secured courtesy of an eye-catching knockout victory over British fighter Ted Cheeseman in October 2021.
 
The undefeated Ward (31-0-1, 4 knockouts), from County Durham, produced a dominant display against Venezuelan Leonardo Padilla in his most recent contest to move one step closer to a deserved world title shot.
 
The event will also see McCormack and Rees, both local fighters who recently signed to Probellum, make their hotly anticipated professional debuts following brilliant careers at amateur level, with McCormack winning a silver medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and Rees a five-time national champion.
 
Fellow Probellum fighter and rising star Dickinson (2-0, 1 knockout) will be looking to build on an impressive start to his professional career under the guidance of world-leading coach Ben Davison when he returns to the ring at the Utilita Arena.

Speaking about the event Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum, who has promoted some of the biggest names in world boxing including Ricky Hatton and Floyd Mayweather, said:

“We are extremely pleased to be bringing our first UK show of the year to Newcastle, a city which boasts a huge passion for boxing, and home to many of Probellum’s most promising young fighters.
 
“December’s show in Sunderland was a big success, with a brilliant atmosphere, and we are really looking forward to returning to the north-east in March.
 
“As always, the card is packed full of talent with Troy Williamson joining a host of talented local fighters, including the likes of Lewis Ritson and Mark Dickinson, for what promises to be a fantastic night of boxing.”
 

Tickets, which go on sale today (Friday January 28), can be purchased via Ticketmaster.
For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on InstagramTwitter and Facebook.

About Probellum

Launched in September 2021, Probellum is a global boxing promotion and media company, and the fastest-growing brand in the sport.

Probellum’s elite stable includes Nonito Donaire, Lee McGregor, Donnie Nietes, Troy Williamson, Dina Thorslund, Muhammad Waseem, O’Shaquie Foster, Will Cawley, Mark Dickinson and Pat and Luke McCormack.

Since launching, Probellum has signed co-promotional partnerships with some of the biggest promoters globally, including Wasserman (Germany), Universum (Germany), GYM (Canada), Maravilla Box (Spain), Team Ellis (Australia), Titov Boxing Promotions (Russia), Volcano Boxing (El Salvador), BXSTRS Promotions (Mexico), PR Best (Puerto Rico) Glozier Boxing (New Zealand), Box Office Sports (Ghana) and LNK Boxing (Latvia).

Probellum hosted its inaugural event at Dubai’s Coca-Cola Arena in December 2021.




BRITISH CHAMPION TROY WILLIAMSON JOINS PROBELLUM

Sunderland, United Kingdom – December 18, 2021 – Probellum is delighted to announce the signing of undefeated British super-welterweight champion Troy Williamson.

Williamson (17-0-1, 13 knockouts) is one of the best 154lb fighters in the world, and proved his credentials when he knocked out Ted Cheeseman in a Fight of the Year contender in October to claim the British title.

The 30-year-old also holds wins over the likes of Kieran Smith and Harry Scarff during his professional career, and as an amateur won the 2015 ABA Championships.

The Darlington boxer is currently ranked #11 in the world with the IBF, and looks certain for big things over the next few years after teaming up with Probellum.

He is the latest addition to Probellum’s elite roster of talent, having already signed the likes of Regis Prograis, Nonito Donaire, Donnie Nietes, Lee McGregor, Eimantas Stanionis, Arthur Biyarslanov, Taras Shelestyuk, Ricky Burns, Paul Butler, Lewis Ritson, Muhammad Waseem, Pat McCormack, Luke McCormack, Hebert Sousa, O’Shaquie Foster, Hovhannes Bachkov, Darius Fulghum, Eduardo Hernandez, Mark Dickinson, Brandon Moore, Jack Bowen, Jason Mallia and Francisco Rodriguez.

“I’m over the moon to take the next step in my career by signing with Probellum,” said Williamson. “It has already been a tremendous year after winning the British title, and now we can really kick on from here.

“Probellum have signed some of the very best boxers in the entire world, so to now be part of that stable is exciting. The future looks very bright.”

“Troy Williamson is a tremendous fighter and we are ecstatic to have him join us at Probellum,” said Richard Schaefer, President of Probellum. “There are some huge fights out there for him and the possibilities are endless for his career.

“The 154lb division is one of the very best in boxing at the moment, and we can’t wait to see just how far Troy can go on his journey.”

For live news and updates, be sure to follow Probellum on InstagramTwitter and Facebook.




Smith Stops Fowler in 8 in a Battle of Liverpool

Former world title challenger Liam Smith stopped crosstown rival Anthony Fowler in round eight of their scheduled 12-round super welterweight contest in Liverpool, England.

In round one, Smith was cut around the left eye. In round four, Fower started to bleed from around his left eye, In round five, Smith dropped Fowler with a hard right to the head.

In round eight, Smith ended things with a powerful left hook that sent Fowler down again, and the fight was stopped at 2:04.

Smith, 154 lbs of Liverpool is 30-3-1 with 17 knockouts. Fowler, 153.1 lbs of Liverpool is 15-2.

Williamson Stops Cheeseman in 10

Troy Williamson stopped Ted Cheeseman in round 10 of a scheduled 12-round junior middleweight fight.

It was a back and forth brawl that saw Williams drop Cheeseman in the 10th frame with a vicious left hook to the jaw, and the bout was stopped at

Williamson, 153.1 lbs of Darlington, ENG is 17-0-1 with 13 knockouts. Cheesman, 153 lbs of Bermondsey, ENG is 17-3-1.

McGrail Wins Pro Debut with Decision over Harrison

Peter McGrail made a successful pro debut with a six-round decision over Ed Harrison in a super bantamweight fight.

McgRail, 127.1 lbs of Liverpool won by a 60-54 score and is now 1-0. Harrison, 128.5 lbs of Blackpool, ENG is 2-9.

Mitchell wins WBA Bantamweight Title with Unanimous Decision over Courtenay

Jamie Mitchell wrestled the WBA Bantamweight title with a 10-round majority decision over Shannon Courtenay

Mitchell, 117.5 lbs of California, won by scores of 97-93, 96-94 and 95-95 and now is a world champion with a record of 7-0-2. Courtenay, who lost her title before the fight was she weighed in at 120.5 lbs is now 7-2.

Conway Decisions Metcalf

Kieron Conway won a 10-round unanimous decision over James Metcalf in a super welterweight bout.

Conway, 156.1 lbs ogf Northampton, ENG won by scores of 96-94 and 96-95 twice and is now 17-2-1. Metcalf, 156 1/2 lbs of Liverpool is 21-2.

Luke Wills remained undefeatd with a 10-round majotity decision over Rylan Charlton in a lightweight fight.

Wills, 134.6 lbs of Liverpool won by scores of 95-94 twice and 95-95 and is now 11-0. Charlton, 134.6 lbs of Norwich, ENG is 6-2-1.

Solomon Dacres remained undefeated with an eight-round decision over Kamil Sokoloweski in a heavyweight bout.

Dacres, 227.6 lbs of Brirmingham, ENG win by a 78-74 score and is now 3-0. Sokolowski, 239.6 lbs of Poland is 10-23-2.

Robbie Davies Jr. stopped Jonny Phillips in round four of their scheduled six-round super lightweight fiht.

The time of the stoppage was 2:28 of round four for Davies, 143 1/2 lbs of Liverpool, who ups his record to 21-3 with 14 knockouts. Phillips, 140 lbs of Sandhurst, ENG is 5-8.

Blane Hyland won a four-round decision over Santiago San Euseebio in a super flyeright contest.

Hyland, 117 lbs of Liverpool won by a 39-37 score and is now 5-1. Eusebio, 118 1/2 lbs of Lyon, FRA is 3-2-2.




WILLIAMSON – I’LL BE GOING HOME WITH THE BRITISH TITLE

Troy Williamson is determined to prove that he is the number one 154lbs fighter in the country when he takes on two-time British Super-Welterweight Champion Ted Cheeseman for the Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool this Saturday October 9, live worldwide on DAZN

‘Trojan’ (16-0-1, 12 KOs) landed his shot at the famous belt by stopping Scotland’s Kieran Smith in six rounds of their Final Eliminator at York Hall earlier this year, and the chiselled 30-year-old from Darlington believes that a win over Cheeseman will place him at the top the stacked 154lbs division. 

Williamson, who spent two years with the Team GB set up in Sheffield during his amateur days, concedes that Cheeseman has the upper hand in terms of the level or previous opponents faced, but insists that this won’t matter when the bell rings and he takes on his toughest challenge to date.

“I’ve been saying for years that I deserve the chance to be involved in these big fights,” said Williamson. “I’ve told everyone that I’m good enough and this is my chance to prove it. I believe that I’m the best 154lbs fighter in the division. 

“I’ve been offered some big fights in the past and I’ve accepted them all. It’s just unfortunate that some of them never happened for whatever reason. As soon as the Ted Cheeseman fight got mentioned I accepted it because he’s a warrior. 

“This Saturday we’re getting down to business. Ted is a great two-time British Champion. That says it all. He’s the number one fighter in the division. You can’t deny that. I just know what I possess and what I’m going to bring on the night. I’ll be going home with the British Title. 

“We’ve had a similar number of fights; I think he’s had one or two more fights than me. I’ve not had it the easy way. I’ve had it tough when I had to sell tickets myself on these small hall shows. I’ve not had no bums just to knock over. I’ve come through the hard way and it will show on the night that experience won’t matter.

“You’re going to see the best of me on Saturday. The better the opponent, the better version of Troy Williamson you’ll see. Ted Cheeseman is the biggest fight of my career and he’s probably the best fighter I’ve boxed in my career. It’s going to be a cracker, there’s going to be fireworks. 

“I carry power in both hands. If I hit anyone on the chin at 11st in 10oz gloves I’m going to hurt them. If the stoppage comes it comes. We both like to have a tear up, we’re both fit and both very tough. I’m not one to backdown from a fight. When the big fights come I’ll always take them and so will Ted.”

Cheeseman vs. Williamson is part of a stacked night of action in Liverpool, former WBO Super-Welterweight Word Champion Liam Smith (29-3-1, 16 KOs) meets 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Rio 2016 Olympian Anthony Fowler (15-1, 12 KOs) in a massive all-Liverpool clash for local bragging rights, WBA Bantamweight World Champion Shannon Courtenay (7-1, 3 KOs) defends her crown for the first time against the USA’s Jamie Mitchell (6-0-2, 4 KOs), Northampton’s Kieron Conway (16-2-1, 3 KOs) looks to bounce back from his loss to Souleymane Cissokho on the Canelo vs. Saunders undercard when he meets James Metcalf (21-1, 13 KOs), decorated amateur star Peter McGrail makes his highly anticipated professional debut against Ed Harrison (2-8), Tony Bellew-managed Lightweight Luke Willis (10-0, 1 KO) clashes with Norwich’s Rylan Charlton (6-1-1, 3 KOs), two-time World Title challenger Natasha Jonas (9-2-1, 7 KOs) returns after her thrilling fight with Katie Taylor in May, Birmingham Heavyweight hope Solomon Dacres (2-0, 1 KO) steps up against the experienced Kamil Sokolowski (10-22-2, 4 KOs) in just his third fight, Wigan Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (3-0) fights for the second time this year and Blane Hyland (4-1) meets Santiago San Eusebio (3-1-2, 2 KOs) in a four round Super-Flyweight contest. 




CHEESEMAN – THIS IS THE LAST HURDLE FOR ME AT BRITISH LEVEL

Ted Cheeseman hopes to push on from domestic level should he successfully defend his British Super-Welterweight Title against Darlington’s Troy Williamson on the stacked Liam Smith vs. Anthony Fowler card at the M&S Bank Arena Liverpool a week on Saturday, live worldwide on DAZN

Cheeseman (17-2-1, 10 KOs) recaptured the 154lbs Lord Lonsdale Challenge Belt with a brilliant eleventh round knockout of the previously unbeaten Liverpudlian James Metcalf on the blockbuster Alexander Povetkin vs. Dillian Whyte II show in Gibraltar earlier this year. 

‘The Big Cheese’ suffered his first career loss when he stepped up to European level to challenge Spain’s Sergio Garcia at The O2 back in February 2019, but with his personal issues now behind him the 26-year-old Bermondsey favourite is confident that he can mount a fresh assault at European honours and beyond.

“Before I had my demons I hit a point where as a young pro you think you’re unbeatable,” said Cheeseman. “You have that glow and that feel around yourself. I feel like for a while I had a lot of pressure on me. I was putting more pressure on myself because I wanted to prove everyone wrong. Now I feel like I’ve got that relaxed happiness and confidence back. I know that as long as I perform I should deal with Troy Williamson. 

“You always get a test. You either shine or you fail. I hope he fails, but you never know. I believe that I’m ready for whatever he brings. There isn’t any bad blood between us. We’re both good fighters and we both know what we want to do and where we want to go. It’s about giving ourselves the best opportunity of doing that. I’m in unbelievable shape both mentally and physically. 

“I can’t look past this fight, but I feel like this is the last hurdle for me at this level. As long as I’m successful on October 9 then I’ll push on, roll the dice and see where I can get to. I believe that I have the ability to get him out of there in the twelve rounds. Whether it’s points or a stoppage it doesn’t matter, as long as I get the win.

“This is my last hurdle at British level. I’m very motivated for this fight. Troy is a good fighter. Obviously he hasn’t had any tests like me. I don’t think he’s had a proper gut check yet, but he’s unbeaten and he doesn’t want to lose his unbeaten record. He’s a tough fighter and he can bang a bit. It’s a good test but I believe my experience will count in the end.”

Cheeseman vs. Williamson is part of a stacked night of action in Liverpool, former WBO Super-Welterweight Word Champion Liam Smith (29-3-1, 16 KOs) meets 2014 Commonwealth Games gold medallist and Rio 2016 Olympian Anthony Fowler (15-1, 12 KOs) in a massive all-Liverpool clash for local bragging rights, WBA Bantamweight World Champion Shannon Courtenay (7-1, 3 KOs) defends her crown for the first time against the USA’s Jamie Mitchell (6-0-2, 4 KOs), Northampton’s Kieron Conway (16-2-1, 3 KOs) looks to bounce back from his loss to Souleymane Cissokho on the Canelo vs. Saunders undercard when he meets James Metcalf (21-1, 13 KOs), decorated amateur star Peter McGrail makes his highly anticipated professional debut, Tony Bellew-managed Lightweight Luke Willis (10-0, 1 KO) clashes with Norwich’s Rylan Charlton (6-1-1, 3 KOs), two-time World Title challenger Natasha Jonas (9-2-1, 7 KOs) returns after her thrilling fight with Katie Taylor in May, Birmingham Heavyweight hope Solomon Dacres (2-0, 1 KO) steps up against the experienced Kamil Sokolowski (10-22-2, 4 KOs) in just his third fight, Wigan Lightweight Rhiannon Dixon (3-0) takes on Anaelle Angerville (1-1-1) over four rounds and Blane Hyland (4-1) meets Santiago San Eusebio (3-1-2, 2 KOs) in a four round Super-Flyweight contest. 




Edwards Decisions Mthalane; Wins Flyweight Title

Sunny Edwards outboxed longtime longtime champion Moruti Mthalne to capture the IBF Flyweight championship at York Hall in London, England.

Edwards landed 148 of 907 punches; Mthalane was 106 of 694.

Edwards, 111.3 lbs of England won by scores of 120-108, 118-111 and 115-113 and is now 16-0. Mthalane, 119. lbs of South Africa is 39-3.

Conlan wins Majority Decision over Baluta

Michael Conlan remained undefeated with a 12-round majority decison over Ionut Baluta in a super bantamweight fight.

Conlan landed 170 of 469 punches; Baluta was 97 of 782.

Conlan, 121.9 lbs of Dublin, Ireland won by scores of 117-112, 115-114 and 114-114 and is now 15-0.. Baluta 122 lbs of Madrid, SPA is 14-3.

Conlan said, “Baluta is a tough character, tougher than I thought. And he showed it in his last two performances. He’s as game as they come. But he was missing tons of punches, so I wasn’t really worried. But when {the first scorecard read} was a draw, I was like, ‘What’s going on here?’
 
“It was a good fight, good preparation for what’s to come.
 
“I’ll stay active. I’ll fight in August anyway, and I’ll get straight back in the gym.”

Troy Williamson stopped Kieran Smith in round six of a scheduled 12-round junior middleweight bout.

In round six, Williamson landed a a hard combination that put Smith down and out at 1:28. Smith was down for several minutes, but was able to get to his feet.

Williamson, 153 lbs is now 16-0-1 with 12 knockouts. Smith, 153.4 lbs of Scotland is 16-1.

Ryan Garner won a six-round decision over Jordan Ellison in a junior welterweight bout.

Garner was bleeding from his nose in round three.

Garner, 136.75 lbs of Southhampton, UK won by a 60-54 score and is now 10-0/ Jordan Ellison 141 lbs is 11-33-2.

Joshua Frankham won a four-round decision over Naeem Ali a junior middleweight bout.

Frankham, 152.9 lbs won by a 40-36 score and is now 3-0. Ali, 156.2 lbs is a robust 2-67-1.




FIRED UP TROY WILLIAMSON WARNS FOWLER NOT TO JUMP THE BRITISH TITLE QUEUE

TROY WILLIAMSON has told his domestic rivals to get in line once he becomes mandatory challenger for the British Super-Welterweight championship.

The exciting Darlington fighter meets Kieran Smith (16-0, 7 KOs) on Friday (April 30) for the right to be the next man challenging Ted Cheeseman for his British title.

Despite the BT Sport televised battle between Williamson (15-0-1, 11 KOs) and Greenrigg’s Smith being a final eliminator, Anthony Fowler has been demanding next crack at Cheeseman.

“I have seen the all his comments, but it all goes over my head. I’m just interested in getting the win on Friday and pushing on,” said Williamson.

“This is a final eliminator so when I get the win I deserve the shot at the British title next before anyone else.

“Just because it is a final eliminator it doesn’t mean Ted can’t have another fight, but if it’s a British title defence it has to be against me after I win on Friday.

“It’s going to be a good night for Frank Warren because I am going to win and Sunny Edwards will become a World champion.”

The Super-Welterweight division is one of the most stacked in Britain. Besides Cheeseman, Fowler, Smith and Williamson those competing at domestic level includes Kieron Conway, Scott Fitzgerald and Hamzah Sheeraz.

‘Trojan’ Troy added: “You have to say Ted is number one because he is the British champion, but I am in the top three and when I win on Friday I am number two in my opinion.

“At the minute I am ranked eighth by Boxrec and I should be a little bit higher. I still have a lot to prove and although I haven’t had the opportunities I deserve, they’re now coming.

“People will see me get the win against Smith and that will put me right up where I deserve to be.”

Williamson has already had one fight in the Queensberry bubble coming through a rough house ten rounder against Harry Scarff last August, but this is his biggest night as a boxer so far.

He says: “A lot of people think I just come forward and fight, but I can actually box and you’re going to see that against Kieran. He is an awkward southpaw and I can’t just rush forward.

“I boxed for three or four years all over the world as an amateur, so have a good pedigree, but a lot of people don’t take notice of that.”

Promoter Warren would love to match Williamson against Queensberry stable mate Hamzah Sheeraz and hopes it will be third time lucky having seen the fight fall through twice so far.

First Williamson has to beat Smith and then Cheeseman, but told Hamzah: “Once I am British champion I will take on all-comers from the first defence.”

In the main event on the behind closed doors London card brilliant South African Moruti Mthalane (39-2, 26 KOs) defends his IBF World Flyweight championship against Croydon’s Sunny Edwards (15-0, 4 KOs), a former GB amateur team-mate of Williamson.

In a ten rounder Belfast’s WBO number one ranked Super-Bantamweight Michael Conlan (14-0, 8 KOs) faces dangerous Romanian Ionut Balata (14-2, 3 KOs).

 Big punching Southampton Super-Featherweight Ryan Garner (9-0, 6 KOs) and Reading Super-Welterweight Joshua Frankham (2-0) are also in action.

Exciting Liverpool Super-Bantamweight puncher Andrew Cain (6-0, 6KOs) meets Manchester’s Stephen Jackson (1-0, 1 KO).

Joshua’s cousin, Levi Frankham is one of two debutants alongside Finchley Super-Welterweight Jonathan Kumuteo.