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Josh Kelly “100%” Wants To Challenge Troy Williamson For British Title

Written by Shaun Brown on 28th July 2022.

Josh Kelly

Josh Kelly has made it clear he wants to fight Troy Williamson for the British Super Welterweight title.

This month’s British Championship circular saw the Boxing Board of Control put a fight between the two North-East boxers out to purse bids.

Bids are to be submitted by August 10 with the title fight to take place by the end of December 2022.

Kelly, promoted by Kalle Sauerland, headline’s Saturday night’s card in Newcastle which sees him take on Argentina’s Lucas Brian Bastida.

It will be the second bout of his promotional agreement with Wasserman Boxing who are looking to turn the Sunderland fighter into something of a mainstream star in front of Channel 5 viewers on terrestrial television.

A fight against Troy Williamson would not only present a serious test in this rebuilding stage of his career but would likely be a thrilling fight too.

Speaking in a Wasserman press release Kelly had this to say about the matter.

“I 100% want that fight. The North-East doesn’t get enough of these shows up here, we’re fighting people and I’ve fought all my life.”

“Here I am, when you’re born in the North-East, you’re a fighter from the start; there’s no luxuries. That fight is a massive one for the North-East, and I’m game to take it. After I get the win here on Saturday, let’s get it on.”

Last week on social media Williamson said he wants to face Kelly in the autumn and will cheer him on this weekend.

Troy Williamson then revealed on Twitter he will be at the Vertu Motors Arena on Saturday ringside to watch his friend Ben Marksby in action. The 30-year-old may even get the opportunity to have a word with Kelly and his promoters too!

The British champion, who is promoted by Probellum, won the title in thrilling fashion against Ted Cheeseman last October before making a successful first defence against Mason Cartwright in March.

At yesterday’s public workouts Kelly was thrilled to be fighting back in the area four years on since his last visit.

“It’s beautiful being back in the North-East. I feel like the energy is different here, and I bounce off that energy.”

“I’m appreciative of everyone. Let’s all come together on Saturday and make plenty of noise, not just for me but for all the local fighters on the card. It’s gonna be one hell of a show, and we’ll have the place bouncing. Let’s go!”