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Leon Williams insists the glory of winning Prizefighter is more important to him than picking up the £32,000 winner’s cheque.
Williams is one of eight men in Barry Hearn’s latest one-night Prizefighter event – Cruiserweights II – at the York Hall in Bethnal Green, east London next Friday, April 30.
At 26, Williams is one of the youngest competitors and believes a successful night will be the springboard to the boxing big-time.
“It’s a big opportunity for me to perform and look good for the crowd,” said Williams, who has won four of his five professional fights. “I can bang, I can fight and I can box so I’m an all-rounder and I’ve got a good chance of winning it.
“There are a lot of big guys in the line-up but I’m licking my lips as I like fighting big guys and this format is perfect for me. It’s not about the £32,000 for me. It’s all about what it does for me afterwards and it will get my name known and see me pushing for titles.
“The money comes and goes but winning this will secure my future and my career. This is a big step up for me but I’m ready for it.”
The Prizefighter contenders include former WBO heavyweight champion Herbie Hide, ex Commonwealth champion Darren Corbett and Mark Krence, who has fought for the British heavyweight belt.
Despite being one of the underdogs, Williams believes it is his time to shine.
“Everyone talks about Herbie Hide but all the talk will be about Leon Williams,” added Streatham-based Williams. “I was shocked to see Herbie Hide in it but he has to get paid like us and I will take the fight to whoever is in front of me.
“It’s not about people’s history, it’s all about on the night of the fight. I will try my hardest and give it my best shot. Boxing has become my life and boxing is also my job. I bring punching power and excitement and I’ll put my opponents under loads of pressure.
“I won’t give them time to breathe and I’ll be on top of them at all times.”
The full list of contenders is: John Anthony (Doncaster), Wayne Brooks (Cardiff), Darren Corbett (Belfast), Jon-Lewis Dickinson (County Durham), Herbie Hide (Norwich), Zahid Kahut (Batley), Mark Krence (Chesterfield) and Leon Williams (Streatham, London).
Tickets cost £35 and £60 and are available from 01277 359900. The show will also be broadcast live on Sky Sports.
