Liam Davies has long wanted a boost.
The 28-year-old has torn through the super bantamweight division over the past few years, winning British and European titles and scoring a string of electrifying knockouts that have improved his rankings in the IBF, WBC and WBA.
Outside the ring, Davies (16-0 (8 KO)) gained confidence and became one of the best communicators in British boxing. He was used to playing a leading role in the packed events of the Magnificent Seven at Queensberry.
It’s time for Davies to get the chance to prove he can host events on his own and become a headliner.
On November 2, at the Resorts World Arena in Birmingham, he will face the undefeated Shabaz Masoud 13:0 (4 KO).
Davies and Masoud were the only people on stage during Tuesday’s news conference opening the event. They stood in front of a giant stage promoting the fight and this opportunity seemed like a definite step up for the Donington man.
Davies knows his worth and appreciates the fact that he has been given the opportunity he has long wanted, but he always thinks about having to fight his way from the bottom in the sport. Instead of becoming complacent, he adopted an underdog mentality before fighting his elderly amateur rival.
“Most people don’t know, but it goes deeper than just fighting,” he said. “I don’t give a damn about the belt. The belt doesn’t matter. This is a fight I have to win. I sit with my back to the wall and I fucking love it. I’m ready to prove it. Liam Davies against the world. This is my motto now.”
The fight was scheduled to take place in July, but Davies contracted the virus and was forced to withdraw. Wanting to stay busy, Masoud stayed on the card and passed Marvin Solano, and a heated post-fight confrontation further increased the tension between the two.
Tuesday’s press conference was respectful, but Davies bristled when asked if he believed Masoud could test him, and dismissed the 27-year-old’s claim that he would not only win but make victory look uncomplicated.
“I don’t see it,” he said. “I fought every style. I am shown and checked on vital nights. I think he has the most vital test ahead of him. I have struggled with southpaws; punches; orthodox; awkwardness. I got through it quite comfortably. I don’t think Shabaz has ever fought someone like me as a professional.
“No one will ever have it uncomplicated with me. I know he believes he will win because we are fighters, right? We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t believe we would win, but he knows it won’t be uncomplicated. I hope so. I don’t expect it to be uncomplicated. I expect him to give his all and it will be a tough night.
“That’s what I’m preparing for, but don’t be surprised if it ends after a round or two because my punching power is ridiculous and I’m also a good boxer. I sparred with immense gloves and knocked down players. I can’t wait to get my little ones dressed and get to work.”
The skillful Masoud is talented but inconsistent, although he has beaten Davies twice in amateur competition. He spoke confidently that he was the more skillful fighter and believed his superior boxing IQ would play a significant role in deciding what happened when the first bell rang.
Davies believes his recent string of early victories has caused observers to overlook the boxing skills that led him to decision victories over the tricky Mark Leach and the threatening Ionut Baluta. He understands Masoud’s confidence, but insists he is the more well-rounded fighter and that his finishing ability will be decisive in the fight.
If he can top Masoud, Davies will be the main attraction for a while.
“He will believe it, and I wouldn’t want him to believe anything else,” he said of Masouda’s claims. “Of course I think I’m a better boxer and the fact is that I definitely punch harder. This won’t just be a boxing match. It’s a 12-round fight. We will argue. It’s the will and who wants it more sometimes. IQ is great, but you have to have a dog in you.
“I showed that I can put people together. I’m not the only one here, I’m cocky and people take it the wrong way. I’m just telling the truth. When I punch people, I can knock them out. Go and check my CV. It’s not that I’m conceited or trying to be arrogant, I’m just telling the truth. When I punch people, I can knock them out.
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