Tampa, FL (May 5, 2006) – Ruben “Hollywood” Williams out-pointed rugged veteran Richard Grant in Ybor’s Main Event III Friday night before another excellent crowd in the series of pro boxing events co-promoted by Silverhawk Championship Boxing and Ringsports Boxing. The beautiful ladies, well dressed men and world championship boxing were featured under a bright red and white tent to the delight of all in attendance.
Williams, who just last year gave Tampa’s then world super middleweight champion Jeff Lacey all he could handle in their title contest, took on a rough and ready Richard Grant who definitely came to town looking for the upset. The highly regarded Williams (28 -2, 17 KO’s) had to use all of his considerable skills behind a blistering jab and flashy combinations to keep Grant from imposing his will. Williams is schedule to fight for the NBA light heavyweight championship in Las Vegas next month. Thus he had a lot riding on the outcome of tonight’s contest. All judges scored the fight in favor of Williams by margins of 78-45, 77-75 and 78-74.
Sensational middleweight Corey Johnson upped his record to 33-2-2, 11 KO’s with a stoppage of Karl Willis at 2:07 of the second round. Johnson landed heavily to the body and threw powerful combinations while pinning Willis to the ropes. Willis was dropped twice and cut above his right eye before the referee stepped in to prevent more damage.
Heavyweight Sherman Williams (30-10-2, 16 KO’s) was impressive and aggressive throughout his fight against Earl Ladson (12-10, 7 KO’s) in an impressive win following his winning the NBA World Heavyweight title just 5 weeks ago in the same ring.
Cruiserweight Alfredo Escalera, Jr. stopped Cullen Rogers in 49-seconds of the first round as the son of the former world champ continued his string of victories and raised his record to 9-0, 7 KO’s. Roger’s record fell to 19-13, 5 KO’s.
Sarasota super featherweight Adrian Perez started the evening off with an action packed, dominating victory over Tampa’s Ricky Thompson who was battered from pillar to post and was often in quick retreat from Perez’ non-stop barrage of punches. Judges scored in favor of Perez by scores of 40-36, 39-37 and 40-36.
Continuing with the tradition started back in February, promoters Silverhawk and Ringsports threw yet another outstanding party in the heart of Ybor City. Good times, great fights and a very special time was had by all.