The BBC and BOXXER today announce that Callum Simpson will defend his European, British & Commonwealth Super Middleweight Titles against Troy Williamson in a headline showdown at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on Saturday, December 20, broadcasting live and free-to-air on BBC Three and BBC iPlayer.

The event, titled The Future Now, marks the next chapter in the BBC’s partnership with BOXXER, showcasing world-class boxing to a new generation of sports fans across the UK.

In one of the most anticipated domestic clashes of the year, Simpson (18-0, 13 KOs) returns to his homeland of South Yorkshire following his explosive European title win over tough Ivan Zucco at Oakwell Stadium, Barnsley in the summer.

English Super Middleweight Champion Williamson (21-4-1, 14 KOs) is ready to play the Grinch and spoil the Christmas party. The Darlington-boxer is riding high after his destructive ninth-round stoppage win over Mark Dickinson to capture the English belt. With a new lease of life in the super middleweight division, the former British Light Middleweight ruler is hungry to continue his resurgence and make a statement this festive season.

Live and free-to-air on BBC Three and iPlayer, the event will bring boxing to new audiences and inspire the next generation of fans.

Alex Kay-Jelski, Director of BBC Sport, said:  “We are thrilled to bring another huge night of British boxing to the audience live and accessible across the BBC. Callum Simpson and Troy Williamson are two outstanding fighters and this will be a huge showcase for British boxing. BBC Three’s young audience loves live sport and this is exactly the kind of event that will capture the attention of new fans and create unforgettable sporting moments.”

Ben Shalom, BOXXER Founder and CEO, said: “Callum Simpson v Troy Williamson is exactly the kind of fight we want to deliver for a national BBC audience. It’s a massive 50/50 domestic title clash between two elite fighters at the top of their game. Leeds will be electric on December 20, and we’re excited to showcase these incredible athletes to a whole new generation of fans. There are more big announcements coming, watch this space.”

Callum Simpson said: “Leeds is going to be bouncing with the Barnsley Army on December 20. Troy’s a tough fighter but this is my time and I’m ready to prove again why I’m one of the most exciting boxers in Britain right now. To headline live on the BBC is massive and we’re putting Yorkshire boxing back on the map at the same time.”

Troy Williamson said: “Callum’s had a great run but he’s never faced anyone like me. I’m gonna ruin his Christmas. I’ve been in big fights, I’ve been the champion, and I know what it takes. This is my opportunity to show that I’m number one and to take the belts home with me.”

LM4

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