Liam Davies experienced a year of highs and lows in 2024. The fighter from Telford began the year strongly, dominating Erik Robles Ayala to claim the IBO super-bantamweight championship. However, his reign was short-lived, as he subsequently lost the title in a bout against Shabaz Masoud.
Davies, who once stated his only ambition was to win a British title as a tribute to his grandfather and considers himself an overachiever, is now set to make his return to the ring. His opponent will be Kurt Walker from Lisburn, an Irish Olympian with an undefeated professional record of 12-0. Walker is looking to add a significant victory to his career, which has perhaps been slower to ignite than anticipated.
Speaking at a recent press conference, Davies commented, “I feel like I`m starting a new phase in my career. Last year brought both my most significant win and my first professional defeat. This gave me the opportunity to reflect on my journey so far, acknowledge my achievements, and now I`m ready to go again, armed with considerably more experience.”
The decision to move up to the featherweight division (126 pounds) might prove beneficial for Davies, especially considering he previously faced difficulties making the 122-pound super-bantamweight limit.
Davies added regarding the weight change, “Certainly, having a few extra pounds helps. The crucial thing isn`t just the weight itself, but the process of making it, and I believe I`ve handled that well. I`m feeling in a strong place, and this Saturday, I have the chance to step back into the spotlight and demonstrate my capabilities. Or rather, remind everyone.”
Stepping up in weight class to face an opponent with a strong amateur background, like an Olympian, presents complex challenges. Davies is fully aware of the difficulties he might encounter in his fight this Saturday evening, which is part of the undercard event headlined by Anthony Cacace vs. Leigh Wood.
“You only have one shot at this career, and my aim is to compete against the top fighters,” Davies stated. “Kurt Walker poses a significant challenge; he`s currently undefeated. Honestly, I didn`t specifically request him; I simply told my team I wanted a substantial fight for my return, against a recognizable opponent. And as is my custom, I`ve never refused a fight offered to me.”
He continued, “Therefore, on Saturday night, I have the opportunity to test myself against a professional who has never tasted defeat – an Olympian, no less. I`m feeling extremely motivated. Anticipate a standout performance from Liam Davies.”
While Kurt Walker seeks a breakthrough victory and a major win for his record, Liam Davies might be focused on securing a knockout finish.
Regarding a potential knockout, Davies commented, “It`s possible, I`m not sure. I do think the fight might be tactical or `boring` at points, but my priority is to return to focusing on my boxing skills and remind everyone of them. Sometimes after getting knockouts, people forget you`re also a skilled boxer. I consider myself a very capable boxer, and I intend for that aspect of my game to be prominent on Saturday night.”
