Welsh Boxing Watch: Osian Williams interview

Boxing in Wales is mainly in the larger cities in the south though, recently, a few prospects from the north have emerged like Sion Yaxley and Gerome Warburton.

28-year-old Osian Williams (1-0), is from the market town of Conwy, which has its own ancient castle. Though he has a Mancunian (English) accent, he’s a fluent Welsh speaker.

He trains at Dyffryn in Colwyn Bay, North Wales.

‘Osh’ is an orthodox boxer in the super-lightweight division.

Osian Williams with Trainer Wez Jones (Source: Sam Young)

How did you get into boxing?

I got into boxing when I was around 12-years-old. I got into a tear-up in school and took a bit of a pasting if I’m honest, so, my dad got me into a boxing gym, the following week and from there I was hooked!

What gym did you first go to?

I started in a gym called Palace ABC, as it was known back then, later on, it became Sparta ABC, it was run by ex-serviceman Jack Baker.

What was your amateur experience?

I had around 25 amateur fights, most of them out of Oliver’s gym in Salford, Manchester, where I only lost two fights. I also had four unlicensed bouts – winning them all.

Who were your favourite fighters when you were growing up?

My favourite fighters were Roberto Duran, Johnny Tapia, Salvador Sanchez, Diego Corrales and Michael Gomez. Anyone who came to have a tear-up!

Why did you decide to turn professional?

I turned professional because I owed it to myself, I’ve done this my whole life and it was now or never. I’m a great fighter, I’ve proved it in the past and now it’s time to prove it on the big stage, as a professional.

Who are you managed and trained by?

I’m managed by ex-boxer Kieran Farrell from Manchester. I’m trained by Wez Jones at Dyffryn in Colwyn Bay, North Wales.

Favourite part of training?

I love every part of the training, to be honest, it’s a great crack in the gym. I’m a gym rat, always in there. You have to make the most of your boxing career, as it’s not a long one and you have to be ready in case the phone rings. The big opportunity, one day, will come up and I’ll be ready, I enjoy training, all aspects, I’m living my dream.

Are you a full-time fighter?

I’m not full time. I’d love to be but, unfortunately, as most professional fighters will tell you. I have a full-time job, I’m an estate agent

How would you describe your fighting style?

I’m a come forward, aggressive fighter and that’s how I love to fight. I come to entertain and put everything on the line!

You made your professional debut, in Manchester, back in January. How did you feel going into that fight?

I loved my debut. Enjoyed every second of it, a dream come true on a great show.

How do you feel you performed against Dylan Draper (W-PTS, 4th)?

I felt it was a dominant, controlled performance but plenty more to come.

How many fights would you like to have in 2020?

I’d love to be as busy as I can. At the same time, I need to be realistic in terms of fights in a calendar year. I’d like six minimum – nine fights would be great!

When is your next fight and who against?

My next fight is March the 14th in Bolton, England on Kieran Farrell’s ‘Rolling the Dice’ show. Opponent to be announced, no predictions just the win, that’s what counts. If the knockout comes – great! I’ll take the opportunity if it presents itself.

Ambitions in the sport?

My ambitions are to keep dropping the weight eventually I’ll be a lightweight. I’d love to pick up the Welsh title and kick on from there, Gavin Gwynne (12-1) is a prime example of what you can do.

How can people get hold of tickets for the 14th March?

If anyone wants tickets please message me as they are going fast! Facebook and Instagram. I’ll drop them off or post them, no problem.