Boxing News Boxing News
Caribbean heavyweight champion Sherman “The Caribbean Tank” Williams (28-10-2, 15 KOs) takes on Adenilson “Maguilinha” Rodrigues (18-3, 14 KOs) in the 12-round co-feature March 31 for the vacant NBA Intercontinental heavyweight championship at the new Ybor City Multi Fight Complex in Tampa, Florida.
Former two-time World Boxing Council lightweight champion Stevie “Lil’ But Bad” Johnston (38-3-1, 17 KOs) fights light welterweight knockout artist Luis Ernesto Jose (24-4-2, 22 KOs) in the 10-round, non-title main event on the Mar. 31 show, co-promoted by Silverhawk Boxing and Ringsports Boxing Promotions.
“I’m looking forward to the fight,” Williams said. “It is very significant for me. I don’t take anybody lightly, but I want to fight for the world heavyweight championship, and that’s why this fight is so important. By the end of this year, God willing, I’ll get a world title shot. I’ll shock the boxing world. I’m going to sneak up on one of these heavyweight champions and take his title belt.”
Brazilian-native Rodrigues is riding a six-fight win streak into his bout against Williams. “I’m not worried about my opponent because I’m in great shape – I just sparred eight tough rounds without any problems – and I’m confident,” Sherman noted. “I’ll be in super dynamic shape for this fight. I’ve been doing a lot of running and cardio work. Technically, since I’ve been working with (trainer) Buddy (McGirt), my style hasn’t changed, but we’ve worked on some weak sports, troubleshooting, and concentrated on my weight.”
Williams, 33, is quick to note that for his last three fights – all victories — his weight has dropped from 263 pounds last October, to 258 in December, and 248 for his last fight February 24. Sherman says he’ll weigh between 242 and 245 for his March 31st fight, his lightest in nearly three years.
During his 8-½ years fighting as a professional, the battle-tested Bahamian Williams has wins against Frank Wood, Al “Ice” Cole and Cisse Salif, to name a few of the more notables, and he fought to a draw versus former world title challenger Jameel McCline
Doors open at 6:30 PM with the first bout at 7:30 PM. Tickets, priced at $75.00 (VIP), $40.00 (reserved) and $25.00 (general admission) are available through TicketMaster. For more information call 813.223.7788.
Williams and Johnston are promoted by Silverhawk Boxing, managed by Rider Boxing, and trained by McGirt. For more information about Williams, Johnston, or Silverhawk Boxing go to www.silverhawkboxing.com.
