A Touch of Heart and Determination
14.01 - In a fight that may have been a defining point in DaVarryl Williamson’s relatively young professional career, Williamson overcame skeptics and a tough opponent to chalk up his 18th professional win after out-pointing Robert Wiggins (17-2-1) on ESPN2 ‘Friday Night Fights’.
In his first action since July 26, 2002, Williamson (18-1) was matched up against the very dangerous Robert Wiggins. “A lot of questions were answered tonight.” said publicist Kevin Mullowney. “DaVarryl showed the boxing community that he can handle a heavyweight punch, that he can go a full ten-rounds and that he is much more versatile than just a ‘big’ right hand.”
Williamson dropped the very game Robert Wiggins in both the 3rd and 8th rounds, but Wiggins, who was fighting on his home turf, in front of friends and family was not going to stay down no matter what Williamson did. “Robert Wiggins was a tough, durable opponent with a huge heart and a chin made of granite. His style may not be particularly attractive, but it is effective.” said Williamson.
After knocking Wiggins to the canvas in the third round, it looked like the ‘Touch of Sleep’ would make it an early night, but Wiggins proved to be very determined. In the fifth round, Wiggins caught Williamson with a vicious uppercut, a punch that broke Williamson’s jaw. In one of the gutsiest heavyweight performances in recent memory, Williamson fought through the pain, utilized his intelligence and ring savvy, and summoned his strength to overwhelm Wiggins. The judges scored the bout 94-93, 97-90, 96-91, all in favor of Williamson. With the win, Williamson extends his winning streak to 15 straight, though his consecutive KO streak stops at 12.
Williamson will have minor surgery to set the break and wire his jaw shut for the next 6-8 weeks. It is not expected that the jaw will cause any further problems, and Williamson will be able to immediately return to his normal routine, with the exception of sparring.
For more information on DaVarryl Williamson, please visit www.touchofsleep.com and www.dbe1.com
