The career of Liam Davies continues to go from strength to strength. On March 16 the 27-year-old bantamweight retained his unbeaten record, 16-0 (8 KOs), with an impressive second round stoppage win over Erik Robles which also earned him the IBO strap. In an interview with Boxing News Davies spoke candidly about why he believes he deserves a big fight, grieving for the loss of his grandfather, the role his mum and dad have played in his life and more.
BN: How do you feel after the win against Erik Robles?
LD: I’m filled with immense joy. Everything went according to plan and I’m exhilarated. All I want is to maintain this momentum. This victory isn’t the end; it’s just the beginning. It’s a significant step towards securing a deserving opportunity for a major fight.
BN: Throughout your camp for the Robles fight did you anticipate the fight would end so early?
LD: Prior to a fight, I approach it with the mindset that it will be a challenging night and I may experience some injuries. However, I am fully aware of my capabilities and how much I desire victory. I am confident in my ability to overcome any obstacles. When facing a Mexican opponent, my mentality is not focused on the idea that my initial punches will instantly incapacitate them. I believe that adopting such an attitude would be counterproductive. Instead, I have always been aware of my own strength, understanding that if I manage to land a clean hit, my opponents will undoubtedly struggle. Regardless of their toughness, I firmly believe that one precise strike can bring anyone down.
BN: Your last three fights have ended in the first round, the fifth and the second round. But prior to that you had three fights that had gone the distance. What’s been the secret to these last three fights?
LD: My unwavering commitment to the gym has been remarkable. I have diligently poured my efforts into boxing, ensuring that I follow every aspect correctly. From adhering to a strict diet to achieving the perfect weight, to enduring extensive hours of rigorous training, I have embraced it all. It’s a foolproof formula, to be honest, quite straightforward.
BN: Are you feeling on top of the world?
LD: Although I’m content, I believe there is still unfinished business. I haven’t reached my desired destination or accomplished even half of what I aspire to do. While I am currently in a good position and feeling happy, it’s crucial for the promoters to support me and for my manager to advocate for the right opportunities.
BN: Have there been any discussions about you fighting on the Five vs. Five event involving Queensberry and Matchroom fighters?
LD: There won’t be any discussions, just me stating my position. It’s unlikely to happen, and I accept that fact. I have no control over that aspect, so I won’t stress about it. If it does happen, I’ll be pleased and prepared, but if it doesn’t, I’ll accept it as it is. It has to be a significant opportunity. Please don’t try to match me up against English individuals who lack credibility. Give me a prominent figure.
BN: There’s been more speculation about you fighting Dennis McCann but is that what you want?
LD: As long as I receive proper compensation, I am open to the fight. I believe it will be a worthwhile battle. However, it only makes sense for me if there is a significant financial incentive. I am confident that I can defeat Dennis McCann.
BN: Did you happen to watch his fight against Brad Strand?
LD: While warming up, I observed a portion of his performance in the changing room. I must say, I was far from impressed. He carried himself as if he had achieved something extraordinary. He deliberately avoided any interaction with me. If he possessed true courage, he would have challenged me for the British and European titles instead of pleading for me to step aside and let them fight for it. In my opinion, this action speaks volumes about his character.
BN: So, basically you want a big fight next that is a big boost for your career and pays well.
LD: This bout is a world title eliminator, or at least something similar in nature. It is important to note that I have consistently accepted the most significant fights throughout my career. I have triumphed in these challenges, and now it is only fair for these opponents to reciprocate by granting me what I desire. The reason behind accepting the Robles fight was primarily due to the lack of interest from other contenders. Nonetheless, my manager and I decided to go ahead with it. Although not everyone seemed enthusiastic about it, I confidently declared my ability to defeat him, thus urging the fight to materialize.
BN: The IBO title isn’t one of the main four belts but how does it make you feel to have it?
LD: Despite what others may say, I hold the world title and consider myself a world champion. Although it may not be one of the four major titles, I understand and agree with that fact, but no one can deny my accomplishment. If it wasn’t for [Naoya] Inoue, this could have easily been for one of the major titles. He was a legitimate champion himself. Regardless of what people may say, I won’t let their words affect me. I am not satisfied and I won’t claim to be happy and retire. I now aspire to obtain one of the four major belts. This victory opens doors for me and puts me in a strong position to challenge these top fighters, whom I would have faced previously. Now people are starting to realize that this is a genuine possibility.
BN: Have there been any discussions as to when you will be out next?
LD: I plan to have a conversation with George Warren to discuss my options. Although the Shabaz Masoud fight has been mentioned, my interest is limited to the fact that it takes place in Saudi Arabia and offers a substantial monetary reward. Personally, I am only interested in facing a well-known opponent such as Nonito Donaire or someone of similar caliber. Perhaps a match against Murodjon Akhmadaliev or participating in an eliminator bout. Another possibility could be traveling to Australia to fight Sam Goodman. While I understand that beggars can’t be choosers, I feel it is time to voice my preferences and aim for a significant opportunity that I truly deserve.
BN: Having read about it in another article I know the death of your grandfather still hurts you. Are you coping with that?
LD: The loss of my Grandad will always be a painful memory for me. I cherished the time I spent with him and I miss him deeply. Visiting his grave and placing a belt there was a meaningful moment for me, a way of honoring him and showing that I had accomplished something. But there is still much more I want to achieve. Whenever I visit, I remind myself to keep going, to continue on his legacy. I have found peace with his passing, but the longing for him remains constant. He was my grandfather, and I will always remember and talk about him. I don’t seek pity from others, I simply want to express my love for him. If he can hear me from up above, I hope he is proud. Boxing serves as a refuge for me, a place where I can escape from the stress and not dwell on my loss. My parents were young when they had me, just 17, so my grandfather played a significant role in my upbringing. He was like a father to me, teaching me valuable life lessons. Even now, I catch myself using his phrases and speaking in his slang. His influence will forever be a part of me, shaping how I raise my own children.
BN: How does your mum and dad feel about your success?
LD: I am fortunate to have my dad’s support. We spend a lot of time together at the gym, which allows us to bond and create lasting memories. Being the oldest sibling, my little sister often remarks that our dad is always with me. While it may seem effortless, I recognize that it takes a lot of effort on his part. My dad has been there for me through thick and thin, ensuring that I stay on the right path and providing me with the love and guidance of a great father. On nights like these, I can tell that he feels it’s all worth it, even though he doesn’t express it openly. He is not one to celebrate excessively; instead, he simply acknowledges my achievements and encourages me to keep pushing myself. This reminds me of my grandfather, who had a similar demeanor. Although receiving a “well done” from my dad would be nice, I think it would feel strange at this point. He would probably remind me that I have more work to do, like running after completing just two rounds. On the other hand, my mom is overjoyed. She had me at a young age and faced numerous challenges when she met her partner. We had to seek refuge and even relied on food banks at times. However, things have changed, and moments like these make it all worthwhile. It brings back the happiness we once had. Seeing her ringside, shedding tears of joy, reminds me of the hardships she endured. She truly deserves these good times.
BN: Naoya Inoue v Luis Nery. How do you see it going?
I predict that Inoue will defeat Nery within six rounds. Nery’s smaller stature makes him an easier target to hit, and I don’t believe he possesses much strength. It should be a relatively effortless victory for Inoue, as Nery has shown vulnerability to body shots.
