Leon ‘Solid’ Williams makes the first defence of his British cruiserweight title at York Hall tomorrow (13th January) as he faces Nottingham’s Shane McPhilbin at the scene of his title victory in October. Headlining another pulsating show from Queensberry Promotions, which will be broadcasted live and exclusively on BoxNation (Sky 456 & Virgin 546).
After dethroning Rob Norton’s lengthy yet inactive reign as British champion, Williams reignited the cruiserweight division and he has several challengers chomping at the bit for a shot at the Lonsdale belt. The first defence of his new strap was initially planned to be against current Southern Arena champion Tony Conquest before illness ruled him out. In stepped McPhilbin from Bulwell in Nottingham, bravely accepting the bout on just 3 weeks’ notice.
25-year-old McPhilbin is managed by Carl Greaves and the former super-featherweight champion has guided the Nottingham native to a 5 fight winning streak to amass a record of 7 wins (4 KO’s) and 2 losses. In June, McPhilbin captured the vacant Midlands Area cruiserweight title with a thunderous stoppage over the then undefeated Rhys Davies and his knockout wins have demonstrated his ability to bang with both hands. Having stayed active with an average of 3 fights a year since turning professional in 2009, 6ft McPhilbin has developed at a steady pace.
When Williams defeated the awkward Rob Norton to become British champion in October he demonstrated an admirable amount of concentration that reflects the quality relationship he has under the tutelage of trainer Johnny Eames at the TRAD TKO Boxing Gym in Canning Town. If the 28-year-old can maintain the same mental focus then he’ll be a difficult obstacle to shift on the domestic scene. Williams is currently enjoying a 3 fight winning streak, earning a record of 9 wins (4 KO’s) and 3 losses (1 KO), as he’s bounced back perfectly to a knockout loss against Rik Turba but the Slovakian’s right hook would hurt many men.
It’s likely Williams will be buoyed by his experience in the latter rounds, having completed 10 and 12 round fights while McPhilbin is yet to pass 6 rounds but William’s will need to utilise his slight speed advantage to fend off McPhilbin’s pressure.
The all action show at York Hall includes a stacked undercard. A heavyweight cross roads fight provides the chief support as former Commonwealth champion Sam Sexton takes on Larry Olabamiwo with neither being able to afford a loss as they set their sights on title contention. There’s also a chance for prospects to impress on the undercard, including; Bradley Skeete, Michael Maguire, George Jupp, John Dingum, Charlie Hoy and Darryll Williams.
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