Edited Press Release: Paul “The Punisher” Williams, fresh off his victory over the five-year reigning WBO welterweight champion Antonio Margarito, immediately challenged the world champion at 147 pounds, Floyd Mayweather, Jr., who instead opted to fight the world champion at 140 pounds, Ricky Hatton.  Also on William’s radar was the WBA welterweight champion Miguel Cotto who had already contracted to fight Margarito if he had been successful in his bout against The Punisher.  As quickly as William’s hand was raised in victory, Cotto signed to fight Shane Mosely in his next challenge.

“I’ve got nothing bad to say to Cotto or Mayweather,” said Williams.  Both are in good, competitive fights.  There’s no secret that they’re not too anxious to step into the ring with me. If I were them, I’d probably not want to fight me either.  But as my team has been saying, as long as they fight someone at this level, I’ll let it slide…for now.  But the winners of these fights will eventually have to see me in 2008, whether they like it or not.”  


Fights have never come easy for Williams at any stage of his career.  But as the WBO champion, Williams cannot be avoided for long.  

“I said leading into the Margarito fight the winner would be the pre-eminent welterweight in the world and Paul put the exclamation point on this statement,” stated William’s promoter Dan Goossen.  He has it all inside the ring - power, chin, and determination.  He takes control from the outset and never lets anyone take it from him.”  

As for Williams, he continues to look for the biggest challenges available for him.  “I want the biggest fights, and with Mayweather, Mosely and Cotto tied up this year, I want the next best.  Margarito didn’t run and he’s an option, as is Kermit Cintron, and a few other fighters.”
 

Margarito, although talks have taken place with other possible fights, has stated that he would like the rematch.  Cintron on the other hand has been talking up a storm.  Williams not one to shy away from anyone, physically or verbally, had a word or two for the WBA champion.

“Kermit Cintron is much like the story the Wizard of Oz… like the lion, he has no courage… he got stopped by Margarito and now has every excuse on why.  He thinks he has clout for beating (Walter) Matthysse, please.  Everyone knows that Matthysse was never the same after I fought him last May.”  He went on to say, “There is no one that I (Paul) wouldn't fight...no one. Until then, I'll just get myself ready and let my team put it all together.”

“Paul has done everything I’ve asked him to do,” exclaimed his mentor and trainer, George Petersen.  “I know he’s the best welterweight today, and we’ll keep working hard beating anyone in his path.”

Williams, who keeps up on his fitness regiment in order to stay in good condition is the proud father of two children and resides with his family in Aiken, South Carolina.