Wins is the word at the heart of a picture of Troy Williamson and Jordan Williams.
Could it be a sign as Darlington warrior Williamson moves ever closer to his challenge for the British, Commonwealth and European titles of Callum Simpson in Leeds on Saturday, December 20?
We’ll find out next weekend, but Jason Corbett’s exquisite shot captures more than just a potential prophecy but a coach and boxer in perfect harmony.
Most of you reading this will know that the full sign reads “Twins” as in the Twins Academy in the very heart of the Trimdons, where Jordan coaches an array of fighters.
It is here where Williams and Williamson are gearing up for the crack at the unbeaten Simpson, who some see as unbeatable, though that is not the view of the men inside Twins.
Williams and Williamson linked up this year after Troy ended his long and successful association with Craig Carney after his friend and trainer felt it was time for him to hang up his gloves following three high-profile defeats in a row and four in his last five contests.
‘Trojan’ thought otherwise and landed at Twins and produced an inspired performance, not to mention an incredible finish, to stop Mark Dickinson in nine rounds at Houghton in September to become the English super-middleweight champion.
The 34-year-old built an instant bond with his new coach and that was evident before, during and post-fight.
“We gelled really from the get-go to be fair – I spend more time with him than my own family,” smiled Jordan.
“I think the coach-boxer bond is absolutely vital, it’s about the trust, and I’m really happy with everything, he’s in the form of his career.
“I really believe Troy is looking the best he’s ever looked.
“I think he’s coming into his prime and I’m just looking forward to the 20th now.”
It could also be said that Simpson is in the form of his life, having reeled off 18 straight wins, 13 of them inside the distance, one of those coming last time out when he stopped Italy’s Ivan Zucco in Barnsley, where he added the European crown to his British and Commonwealth titles.
The 29-year-old Yorkshireman is some force, as Williams acknowledged.
“Of course, 100 per cent,” Jordan told punch-lines. “We know exactly what we are getting into.
“Troy deserves this opportunity, and I believe he’s going to shock a lot of people.
“Callum is a great lad, and they are great, proper boxing people, but I do feel Troy is going to come and spoil their party.”
The Williams/Williamson combo have already spoiled one party by defeating Dickinson in the backyard of ‘Boo Boo’ at Rainton Arena.
It was the 21st win of the career of the former British light-middleweight champion, or super-welter if you prefer, and was up there in the same breath as his title wins over Ted Cheeseman and Mason Cartwright.
Williams is confident of a repeat showing on BBC TV next weekend.
“My stance is similar to before the Mark Dickinson fight that if he performs how he does in sparring then it will be another Troy Williamson night,” said Jordan.
“In the last fight he stuck to the game-plan.
“Troy is a fighter disciplined in every aspect of boxing, not just in the gym and in training, but sticking to the plan.
“We expected Mark to start sharply and that we might lose some early rounds, but I believe we got the game-plan absolutely spot on and that we could get him late.
“We’ve had more time together for this one and we’re really looking forward to this night.”
Words: Roy Kelly Picture: Jason Corbett/ Mindenwood Photography
