– 6 February 2007) was a British

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern IrelandIn the United Kingdom and Dependencies, other languages have been officially recognised as legitimate autochthonous languages under the European Charter for Regional or Minority Languages...

 former professional boxer

Boxing

Boxing, also called pugilism, is a combat sport in which two people fight each other using their fists. Boxing is supervised by a referee over a series of between one to three minute intervals called rounds...

 in the 1940s and 1950s and was at one time both the British and Empire heavyweight champion.

Williams turned professional in 1946 and was known for his scientific approach in the ring, with one of his greatest fights being a bout with Jack Gardner on 17 July 1950 in Leicester

Leicester

Leicester is a city and unitary authority in the East Midlands of England, and the county town of Leicestershire. The city lies on the River Soar and at the edge of the National Forest...

. It was a Commonwealth title eliminator fight and he lost on points, and according to the BBC

BBC

The British Broadcasting Corporation is a British public service broadcaster. Its headquarters is at Broadcasting House in the City of Westminster, London. It is the largest broadcaster in the world, with about 23,000 staff...

 it was rated as one of the most grueling bouts ever staged in Britain and left both boxers requiring a night in hospital.

Williams had a rematch with Gardner and won the 15 round fight, claiming both the British and Empire titles in 1952.

However, Gardner made a comeback in 1955 and knocked out Williams after five rounds for the title.

Williams retired in 1960 with 60 wins, 38 by knockout, 11 losses and 4 draws, and began a career in farming.

He died on 6 February 2007 survived by his wife and daughter.

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