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Skelton outboxes sluggish Williams

09/07/2006

A disappointing encounter at the Millennium Stadium saw Matt Skelton claim the Commonwealth heavyweight title from Danny Williams.

It was a lethargic affair that failed to live up to its billing, with both boxers looking tired and both appearing incapable of gaining any kind of momentum.

Two of the judges called it 117-112 and the third went for 115-114, as Skelton's slow and steady approach proved more successful than the sporadic bursts of power from Williams.

The two men first met in the ring four months ago in what was a vigorous if a little unsporting encounter, but last night's fight seemed to lack the fierce competitiveness that many had been expecting.

After weighing in at over 20 stone, Williams claimed to be in the best shape of his life, but it was a boast that began to appear increasingly suspect as he laboured his way through the rounds.

Indeed, while Skelton is known as something of a brawler, he simply picked Williams off with a series of jabs and kept on his toes as his heavier opponent lumbered.

A couple of furious hooks and a strong uppercut from Williams definitely had his opponent reeling for a while, but Skelton never lost control of a fight he was able to dictate almost from the off.

The apparent ease with which he kept Williams at bay is perhaps all the more remarkable given the nature of his preparations for the occasion.

Speaking to ITV, Skelton admitted that he had stopped sparring four weeks ago because of a cut above the eye, while he also claimed to have developed a fracture in his right hand.

The 39-year-old Bedford man is now eyeing up a world title fight with Nikolai Valuev, while Williams, soon to turn 33, may well be considering his options.


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