Plenty of big nights in 2023.
That is the plan for Troy Williamson, who will be looking to again make his mark on the light-middleweight scene, or super-welter if you are of a younger age.
The Darlington star lost his British title to Josh Kelly last month when the Sunderland boxer clinched a unanimous points triumph at the Utilita Arena.
It was a first defeat for the 31-year-old, but it’s only interruption rather than a career-ending set-back.
Over the last couple of years, Williamson has established himself as one of Britain’s top light-middles.
In 2021, he produced a devastating knock-out of Kieran Smith in an England v Scotland showdown in London before ripping the British title from the great warrior Ted Cheeseman in a 10th-round stoppage in a fight of the year contender in Liverpool.
Last year, he was involved in another incredible scrap when he made a thrilling maiden defence of his belt, climbing off the canvas from an early knockdown to beat Mason Cartwright by a unanimous decision.
Illness has kept him out of the gym this week but he’s looking to be back working with coach Craig Carney soon, with the possibility of a contest late next month, though nothing has been confirmed yet.
“I’m hoping to be out in February,” he told punch-lines.
“I think it’s important I get straight back on the horse.
“December 2 didn’t go my way, but that’s life.
“In sport and life, you don’t just get things given, there is going to be a bump in the road somewhere.
“But I’m definitely looking to prove just how good I am in 2023.
“I came up short in Newcastle but the very best Josh Kelly turned up and was top quality on the night, fair play to him.
“But there are plenty of big nights to come.
“I’m looking to get back at it in February hopefully and then push on from there.”
‘Trojan’ has “been chilling out and eating plenty” and while not looking forward to having to take the weight off he’s put on, he’s looking forward to working with Carney again in Middlesbrough.
Sometimes, in the aftermath of a high-profile defeat, you see a boxer and coach go in different directions.
Former world champion Anthony Joshua did that while Josh Taylor moved away from his trainer, even after he won his battle of Britain with Jack Catterall, albeit by a controversial decision.
“it’s mad when that happens,” said Troy, who has built a 19-1-1record under Craig.
“As a boxer, you need someone who you can trust, someone who is there with you through thick and thin.
“That’s what Craig is. He’s a great coach, a good strong role model and a father figure really.
“We speak every day and there is no-one else I’d want training me.”
Williamson was roared on by a huge army of fans in Newcastle and he had praise for them as he moves into 2023.
“I’ve a good following all over the North-East, not just Darlington and Teesside,” he said.
“I really appreciate all the support I get, these are not easy times so when people are spending their hard-earned money I can’t thank the enough for their support.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Wasserman Boxing
