DaVarryl Williamson squares off against ‘Baby’ Joe Mesi on HBO’s ‘Night of the Young Heavyweights’ for the N.A.B.F. Heavyweight Title.

29.07 - Buffalo, NY: In what promises to be an explosive night of boxing, 1996 USA Olympic Team members DaVarryl ‘Touch of Sleep’ Williamson (18-1, 16) and ‘Baby’ Joe Mesi (26-0, 24) will square off in a twelve-round bout at the HSBC Arena in Buffalo, N.Y. At stake is the North American Boxing Federation (NABF) heavyweight title. The HBO telecast, ‘Night of the Young Heavyweights’ will thrust one of these young fighters into the spotlight and a potential world Top 10 ranking.

An exciting transfusion into the sport of boxing, Williamson has quickly emerged at the head of the class of up and coming prospects. With just 19 professional fights on his ledger, Williamson has already stepped up the level of competition to the point that he may be one big fight away from reaching serious contender status. The next rung in the ladder looks to be the current North American Boxing Federation (NABF) Champion, ‘Baby’ Joe Mesi.

The 6-4, 220lb Williamson possesses one of the most lethal right hands in the heavyweight division, with 16 of his opponents finishing the fights staring up from the canvas. In his most recent fight, a January outing against the dangerous and durable Robert Wiggins, Williamson won a hard fought 10 round unanimous decision, suffering a broken jaw in the process, but still displayed enough power to drop Wiggins twice. “The jaw is good, it’s healed perfectly and is a non-factor as far as I am concerned. Right now I am just focused on my next fight and my next opponent.” said Williamson.

The Williamson / Mesi bout will be the main event on HBO’s September 27th telecast, ‘Night of the Young Heavyweights’ and will feature two other heavyweight bouts, all designed to showcase the future of the Heavyweight division. “This is my moment to shine. I know what I have to do, and I am prepared to take center stage in front of 18,000 fans and in front of millions of viewers and do what needs to be done. I am ready to go into Joe’s house and take the title back home to Denver,” said Williamson.

‘Baby’ Joe Mesi (6-1, 230lb), has a strong following in his hometown of Buffalo and with an undefeated record, Mesi will be laying a lot on the line when he faces Williamson. With notable names Bert Cooper and David Izon on his ledger, Mesi has taken the necessary steps to reach this level.

Managed by Gary Gittelsohn and promoted by DiBella Entertainment, ‘Touch of Sleep’ certainly has the backing to support his claims that he will be ready for a title shot soon. “I’m in a rush, but I know I have the goods. On September 27th, Joe Mesi will be receiving a “touch of sleep.” Thereafter, I’ll be looking for a title shot as soon as possible ” said Williamson.

With a winning streak of 15 and a murderous right hand, Williamson has the goods to back up his expectations.

The HBO telecast will air Saturday, September 27, 2003 at 10 p.m. (EST)