Troy Williamson’s big night is almost here – his chance to achieve his dream of becoming British champion.
It’s a tough assignment in Liverpool this Saturday night for the Darlington star given the holder of the light-middleweight belt is the excellent Ted Cheeseman.
There is no bad blood between the two rivals, no name-calling, no outrageous bravado, just mutual respect and an expectation of a North v South war on the Matchroom event at the M&S Bank Arena.
However, the ‘Big Cheese’ questioned both the staying power of his challenger and his chin at the final media conference.
Given it’s the first 12-rounder of the 30-year-old’s career it is a legitimate point but one ‘The Trojan’ was happy to answer, explaining that he has put in the work in the gym with coach Craig Carney.
“I know how tough and fit I am,” said the Frank Warren-promoted boxer.
“Obviously I haven’t had the opportunity to show I can do 12 rounds because I’ve never needed to.
“I’m an explosive puncher and I get rid of people but I know deep down that I can do the distance. I’m very fit and very tough, it’s going to be a great fight.
“No doubt at all, the hard work has been done. I’ve done the rounds in the gym and it’ll show on Saturday night.”
There could be a counter argument that given this is Ted’s seventh successive championship contest that the South Londoner has ‘a few miles on the clock’ especially given he has been in some ‘good old-fashioned tear-ups’ to quote an old Michael Hunter-ism while Troy, despite being four years his senior, is still relatively fresh.
Williamson believes that could be an issue though was quick to point out that might not be the case with the champion just yet, given he is still only 26.
“I’ve been in some tough fights in my career, but I’ve not had the wars Ted’s had,” he told punch-lines.
“I do believe in time that does catch up with you, whether that’s now or a bit further down the line.”
Whatever the pros and cons regarding distances and freshness, Williamson is full of respect for the champion and expects a great fight on Merseyside.
“I know what Ted brings, I rate him, he’s a really, really good fighter,” added Troy.
“I think me and Ted are two of the best super-welterweights in the division and we’re going to put that on the line on Saturday night.”
Cheeseman, who has a record of 17-2-1 (10), placed great store on his run of championship experience and the fact Williamson’s defence has yet to be tested.
“I’ve done it a lot, for Troy it’s his first time and he’s going to have to have that gut check,” he said.
“He keeps saying about his power but no disrespect to Troy, he hasn’t been hit yet, I have.
“That’s the difference, he’s got to worry about what power I hit him with not what power he can hit me with. Everyone can see I’ve got a great chin but how good is his chin?”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Mark Robinson/ Matchroom
