09.12.06 – By Aaron King: Audley Harrison took a step toward reviving his career Saturday night after destroying fellow Brit Danny Williams in the third round. With the win, Harrison avenged his loss to Williams a year ago.
In what was his most impressive performance since winning Olympic gold in 2000, Harrison (21-2, 16 KOs) jumped on Williams (36-6, 29 KOs) from the opening bell and never let up, causing significant damage to his opponents face within the first minute.
Harrison’s sharp, straight lefts produced considerable eye swelling and cuts on both sides of Williams’ nose, forcing the referee to momentarily intervene in the second round while Williams was evaluated by the ringside physician. Harrison, a southpaw, continued coming forward, keeping Williams on the outside with stiff jabs and barbing lefts. In the third, Williams’ condition continued to worsen as Harrison landed two pulverizing left uppercuts that turned Williams’ legs into noodles as he slipped to the canvas.
Williams beat the count, but was stopped only seconds after action resumed as Harrison began to rain shots again.
For Harrison, 35, the question is can he turn this win into a world championship opportunity.
“I’ve got what it takes, they don’t give away Olympic gold medals,” Harrison said, according to Reuters. “You have to fight.
“My goal is to be heavyweight champion and hopefully the country will get behind me,” he added. “You’ve seen today I’ve got the skill.”
The heavyweight division is at present an open book, and it remains to be seen whether or not Harrison can use the talent he was once touted to possess to make his mark on the world title scene.
Meanwhile, many speculate that the loss will be Williams’ last fight. He has yet to comment on the matter.
Williams, 33, was a late replacement after Commonwealth champ Matt Skelton pulled out with a hand injury last week, setting the stage for Saturday night’s rematch.