Callum Simpson targets revenge win
Callum Simpson’s rematch with Troy Williamson is set to be announced
Callum Simpson seems likely to get the chance to avenge the first defeat of his professional career when his rematch with Troy Williamson is unveiled on Tuesday.
The Barnsley fighter's eagerly-awaited second meeting with Williamson is expected to be confirmed at a press conference in Manchester, ending months of uncertainty following one of the biggest setbacks of Simpson's career.
Simpson had established himself as one of British boxing's rising stars before Williamson stunned him in December.
After a fiercely competitive contest, the experienced Darlington fighter produced a 10th-round stoppage to take the British, Commonwealth and European super-middleweight titles and hand Simpson his first professional loss.
It was a painful blow for a boxer who had generated huge support from Oakwell and beyond and had built a reputation as one of the country's most exciting ticket sellers.
Having looked destined for major title opportunities, Simpson suddenly found his progress halted.
Rather than moving on to other opportunities, the 28-year-old exercised the rematch clause in his contract, making clear his determination to put the defeat behind him and prove he remains one of the leading names in the division.
The fight has taken longer than expected to materialise and neither boxer has fought since their first encounter nearly six months ago.
That inactivity has become a growing source of frustration for Williamson, who believed victory over Simpson had earned him a shot at world honours.
The champion had been linked with a challenge for IBF and IBO title holder Osleys Iglesias before the rematch clause came into effect.
Williamson has repeatedly voiced his disappointment at remaining sidelined throughout 2026, arguing that the delay has prevented him from pursuing a potentially career-defining world title opportunity.
For Simpson, however, the focus is on redemption. A victory would not only restore his position among Britain's leading super-middleweights but also erase the disappointment of the only defeat on his professional record.
After seeing his momentum abruptly interrupted last winter, Barnsley' first ever European champion now has the opportunity to show that the Williamson defeat was a detour rather than the defining moment of his career.