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Williams set for Skelton rematch

23/03/2006

Danny Williams and Matt Skelton will fight each other once again in Manchester this summer.

The British heavyweight pair put on one of the best fights in recent memory at London's ExCel Arena in February, with Williams, the reigning Commonwealth champion, prevailing via a split-points decision.

Skelton, whose British belt was not on the line last month, has said he wants a rematch and although Williams had insisted his sights were set higher, promoter Frank Warren confirmed the duo will come together once more.

A press conference was called for this afternoon, at which Warren confirmed both camps have agreed to a match with the likely venue being the MEN Arena on July 15th.

Brixton Bomber Williams, 32, was hoping his 40th professional fight would be for a world title belt against either WBC champ Hasim Rahman of the United States or the Russian Beast from the East Nicolay Valuev, the reigning WBA belt holder.

But he will have to inflict a second career defeat on Skelton, 39, if he is to land that shot, a reward Warren confirmed either fighter could achieve if they win in July.

"Either man could go on to fight for a world title later this year, but for the time being, Williams' Commonwealth title will be on the line," a statement on FrankWarren.tv said.

Bedford-based Skelton is due to return to the ring on April 1st when he takes on Armenian Suren Kalachyan at London's York Hall, although this fight could be cancelled to enable the veteran to focus on gaining revenge over Williams.

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