By Christian Vick
Former three time welterweight champion, Paul “Punisher” Williams, has spent the last couple of months in relative obscurity. Last November, his dreams came crashing down courtesy of Sergio Martinez, who knocked Williams out in the second round of tehir rematch. Many in the boxing world have wondered if Williams' career would ever recover.
Seemingly, Paul Williams could return to the ring against a plethora of opponents spanning three different weight divisions. Or could he? This writer had a sit down chat with the former world champion. Williams was very optimistic about his prospects, and seemed fired up to return to the ring
Paul, There are some reports out there that you would like to return to the welterweight division. Is there a specific reasoning behind that?
PW: That is false. I have no intention of going back to 147 pounds. None. I don’t know why that is out there. The only fights I will take at 147 pounds are Mayweather and Pacaquio fights. That’s it. They aren’t trying to see me right now though so 147 pounds isn’t going to happen.
What’s up with the WBC? Their Preisdent, Jose Sulaiman, announced that you were part of four-man tournament to get a shot at the title held by Saul Alvarez. Have you been informed of this. Why should you have to fight two fights to get Saul "Canelo" Alvarez? It seems a bit incongruous.
PW:(Laughs) I have not heard about it. Pretty sure Canelo does not want that fight. So why do it? There are other fights out there.
Then who? Would you entertain a rubber match with Sergio Martinez?
Yes. Absolutely. I want that fight. I will take it if the chance presents itself. I would like to get a chance to redeem myself. I have no ill will towards Sergio. I like him personally, we have a good relationship. I still want to get him in the ring one last time
Anyone else?
Anyone can get it. Anyone at 154 pounds. Any of the middleweights. It doesn’t matter. HBO has thrown out some names, nothing is certain. It’s looking like June, but not even that is certain. I am going to continue to work hard. It was a tough loss. Sometimes in boxing, people get caught. I am going to move past it and show the world what I can do.
Christian Vick is the Senior writer for Unifiedchamp.com; His book,” The triumphs and Tragedy of Riddick Bowe” will be released this summer