Troy Williamson can’t wait to defend the Lonsdale Belt in front of the “greatest supporters out there”.
The undefeated Darlington sensation will make the maiden defence of the British light-middleweight championship against Cheshire’s Mason Cartwright in Newcastle on Friday, March 25.
It will mark his first appearance for Probellum on a show which stars Lewis Ritson, Tommy Ward, Mark Dickinson and features the debut of Olympic silver medalist Pat McCormack.
Darlington will turn out in force for ‘Trojan’ who won the title in Liverpool back in October when he stopped a great champion in Ted Cheeseman in the 10th round of one of the fights of the year … anywhere, not just in the UK.
And having devoured the ‘Big Cheese’, it’s ‘Nutty’ next for Williamson.
Cartwright, from Ellesmere Port, has won 17 of his 20 bouts (seven inside the distance) with his two defeats coming in title contests.
Fighting under the moniker ‘Nutty’, the 29-year-old will provide the first test for the champion who is relishing boxing on home soil having won his eliminator in London and the belt in Liverpool.
“I’m excited,” said Williamson. “I’m looking forward to it – North-East fight fans are up there with the greatest supporters out there so I can’t wait to box at the Arena.
“The support was unbelievable and I’ll have a lot there in Newcastle.
“Frank obviously had no confidence in me, if he had he’d have put a bid in for the fight with Ted, wouldn’t he?” said Troy.
“But it is what it is. I’m pleased to have signed for Probellum who have big hopes for me, so I’m looking forward to this year.
“I think 2022 is going to be a massive year and then push on from there.
“But I’ve got to take it one fight at a time and get this one out of the way first.
“I do feel I’m getting better and better each fight and I’ll look to keep improving.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Mark Robinson/Matchroom
