James Toney to face Jeremy Williams on October 23rd

Zab Judah announced Thursday the ring return of James “Lights Out” Toney (77-10-3, 47 KO) as he takes on Jeremy “Half Man, Half Amazing” Williams (43-5-1, 35 KO) in a Celebrity Championship Boxing event in the Virgin Islands on October 23rd. The fight will take place at the Blue Moon Resort, and will be available for your viewing pleasure on Fite TV.

While some will question the wisdom of a 53-year-old Toney lacing up the gloves once more, the reality is that he has always been able to take care of himself in the ring. Out of his ten losses, not one of them ended by way of stoppage, despite the fact that his last bout took place fewer than five years ago.

As far as celebrity matchups are concerned, his choice in opponent is actually quite decent. Williams is a veteran of nearly fifty professional fights, and was a two-time (1990, 1991) USA National Light Heavyweight amateur champion. He fought the likes of Bert Cooper (who he beat by DQ), Al Cole, Maurice Harris, and Samuel Peter. In 1996 he competed for the vacant WBO heavyweight championship versus Henry Akinwande, losing by TKO in the third round.

At 49, Williams is only four years younger than Toney, and despite competing primarily at heavyweight, has not fought the same level of opposition over the years. In other words, this isn’t the kind of matchup that should leave you overly concerned for Toney’s safety, especially considering the fact that it’s an exhibition. If you enjoyed watching Mike Tyson vs Roy Jones Jr, this one might be for you!