Backed by Hall of Famers, Mykquan Williams Won’t Be Denied Much Longer

In-form junior welterweight contender Mykquan Williams is enjoying a breakout year.

Having stopped 17-0 Luis Feliciano in Florida in January, Williams on Friday night scored a highlight-reel knockout of Willmank Canonico Brito at the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, New York.

In the third round, Brito found himself inside and with nowhere to go as Williams launched him to the canvas with a right hand.

Williams celebrated, leaping onto the ropes, and now 21-0-2 (10 KOs), he will be a problem for plenty of fighters at 140 pounds.

Williams, a 26-year-old from Connecticut, knows he is on a roll. 

“[It’s] definitely a great run,” he said. “There have been ups and downs, but we just continue to work. I talked to my promoter [Lou DiBella] after the fight yesterday, and he said, ‘It’s time to go and get a big fight,’ so not too far.

“Lou’s great. So’s his whole team. They look after us well, and Jackie [Kallen] is great – she’s getting inducted. She’s great, I love Jackie. I’m blessed and honored to work with her.”

Kallen goes into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on Sunday, making it a double celebration for the team. It also means the Williams brain trust includes two Hall of Famers, with DiBella and Kallen steering the ship.

Discussing Brito, who had been determined but was ultimately outgunned, Williams said: “He was tough, a rugged dude, but I caught him in between shots and put him out. 

“My corner kept telling me to throw the right hand. I set him up for it, and he was there for it. I planted down on that shot, for sure. I definitely sat down on it.”

Junior welterweight is one of the sport’s glamor divisions today, and Williams is in there pitching for an opportunity. Although he has no one in mind, Williams believes he is ready for any of the leaders at 140.

“Not really,” he replied when asked if he wanted to target anyone. “Whoever comes to the table. I don’t think there’s anyone specific. I believe I’m ready for a world title now, but it’s really not up to me. Whatever opportunity presents itself, we will see.

“We’re waiting to hear [when I’ll fight next], but I got him out of there early yesterday. I didn’t take any punishment. Hopefully soon. I’ll get back in the gym next week.”

Either way, Williams feels he is now in with at least a chance of landing something substantial, and his form line merits it.

“Yeah, for sure,” he said. “I think it’s making big statements and showing everyone that I can’t be denied for too much longer.”