DaVarryl Williamson to square off against Wladimir Klitschko Las Vegas
Brains versus Brawn. Surely a cliché, but come October 2, 2004, nothing will be further from the truth when DaVarryl “Touch of Sleep” Williamson (20-2, 17) meets Dr. Wladimir “Steelhammer” Klitschko (42-3, 39) live from Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, NV in the main event of a SHOWTIME* triple-header.
Williamson (6’4”, 225lbs) earned a Masters Degree in Political Science from Wayne State College of Nebraska and has truly earned his place in the ring, most recently capturing the North American Boxing Federation and World Boxing Organization Latin American Heavyweight Titles in his last outing, a decision win over Elicier Castillo. Originally from Washington D.C., but now fighting out of Denver, Colo. Williamson, has earned a reputation as a dangerous puncher, as 19 of his wins have seen his opponent taste the canvas at least once. At 36 years old, Williamson realizes that time is of the essence and is prepared to do what it takes to bring home a win. “People are looking at this fight as a comeback for Klitschko, perhaps they should be looking at it as my coming out party, and possibly his retirement party.” states Williamson. “I am not going into this fight to lose, I’ve lost, I’ve been there, done that. The losing is over.”
Klitschko (6’6, 245lbs) the 1996 Olympic Gold Medalist, earned his doctorate in sports science from the University of Kiev (Germany) and is the former World Boxing Organization Heavyweight Champion. Widely considered to be one of the best athletes in the sport, Klitschko suffered a loss in his last outing, but is eager to prove that he is still the heir apparent to the heavyweight throne. Trained by legendary trainer Emmanuel Steward, Klitschko will present a significant obstacle, but Williamson is sure that he will triumph.
"This is my second chance, not too many people get a second chance to shine, but a fight with Klitschko is the name I need to help boost myself into the next tier of fighters. Wlad is dangerous and hungry, but so am I.,” declared Williamson.
Both fighters will enter the ring looking to prove a point, and this point is being viewed as a true crossroads affair. For Klitschko, a win is a step towards redemption, and his goal of holding a world title alongside older brother Vitali, who is the current WBC Heavyweight Champion. For Williamson, a win over Klitschko will quiet many critics, and propel him towards his goal of wrapping a heavyweight title around his waist.
Tickets for reserved seats are priced from $50 to $325, and are on sale now at the Caesars Palace Box Office, online through ticketmaster.com and at all Ticketmaster outlets. To order by phone, call (702) 474-4000. Price excludes tax and a handling fee. The SHOWTIME* telecast will begin at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
