Leon Williams is one of the UK’s top amateur fighters. Fighting at a different weight in each bout, he has finally chosen a title to re-focus on, Budo FC’s bantamweight belt. He has previously held the company’s featherweight title and is certainly a big bantamweight, and combined with his grappling prowess, makes him one to watch at 135. He takes on Kenny Whitworth, a 3-1 prospect who most recently won on a Full Contact Contender show in March.
The Manchester Top Team fighter steps in the cage on June 18th on a card that has four title bouts. It is one to look forward to.
Leon Williams Interview
Not long till the fight now. How has camp been?
It’s been good, mate. I love going to the gym. I’m always learning and getting better every day.
You fight for the amateur bantamweight title against Kenny Whitworth. Is this your biggest fight to date?
I guess so. It’s for the belt, but I wouldn’t say he’s my toughest opponent. I’m a lot more experienced than him, but I ain’t underestimating him. He trains at a good gym, but I’m a big step up in competition for him. I’ve watched all of his fights, done my research, and I’m confident that I’ll get the win.
Williams Talks Career Path
Over the course of your amateur career, you have fought at numerous weights, as high as 180lbs. Is it bantamweight where you expect your career to take place going forward?
Yeah, at bantamweight, I feel good, and I’m big for the weight class. I feel strong once I’m on top they ain’t getting back up. I am always open to fighting at featherweight as well.
You fight out of Manchester Top Team, who are getting stronger and stronger as a gym. How good is the current roster of fighters at the gym, particularly at bantamweight, featherweight and lightweight?
It’s amazing. There are a lot of talented up-and-coming fighters at Top Team that can go on to do big things. I honestly believe we are the best gym in the UK.
You are currently 4-0 at Budo FC, with three finishes. Are you expecting another early finish this weekend?
That’s the plan! This could be my last amateur fight so I’m looking on making a statement.
If successful in your title bout, will you be continuing in the amateur ranks or do you have your eyes set on a professional career?
I reckon I’m more than ready to go pro. I’ll see what my coaches say, but if I do have another amateur fight, I can’t lie. I am interested in fighting the winner of Connor Walsh and Tom Wright for the FCC belt.
Thanks again for your time, do you have anything else you would like to add?
I would just like to thank everyone who has shown their support. My friends, family and everyone at Manchester Top Team.
Favourite Fighter – Alexander Volkanovski at the moment.
Favourite Fight – Robbie Lawler vs Rory MacDonald 2
Greatest of all Time – Georges St-Pierre
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Featured image credits to Leon Williams
