Troy Williamson produced one of the most dramatic turnarounds seen on the domestic scene in recent years as he stopped Callum Simpson in the tenth round to claim the British, Commonwealth and European super-middleweight titles at the First Direct Arena in Leeds on 20 December 2025.

More than 7,000 packed into the venue, creating a febrile atmosphere for a fight that promised intensity and delivered it in full. Simpson arrived as the champion, carrying three belts and a growing reputation as one of the division’s most relentless operators after beating Ivan Zucco in is last outing. Williamson, stepping up to challenge at super-middleweight, was viewed by many as the outsider, yet he entered the ring determined to test the champion at every opportunity.

From the opening round, it was clear this would be no straightforward defence. Simpson attempted to use his height and reach, pumping the jab and trying to impose his physical strength. Williamson, however, refused to be overwhelmed. Fighting from a lower stance, he closed the distance sharply and repeatedly found success with fast, straight shots, particularly the right hand. The early rounds were tense and competitive, with neither man giving ground easily.

As the contest progressed, the pace remained punishing. Simpson worked tirelessly on the inside, leaning on Williamson and chipping away whenever space appeared. Williamson responded with sharp counters and clever footwork, preventing the champion from settling into a rhythm. By the midway point, it had developed into a demanding battle of stamina and resolve, with both fighters forced to dig deep.

Simpson appeared to edge parts of the middle rounds through sheer work rate, but Williamson’s accuracy ensured the challenger stayed firmly in contention. Importantly, Williamson looked rejuvenated at the weight, carrying speed and snap deep into the fight. This was notable given that his previous outing had ended in disappointment, a defeat earlier in the year that raised questions about his future at elite level. In Leeds, he answered those doubts emphatically.

The ninth round proved pivotal. Williamson began to land with greater authority, catching Simpson cleanly and visibly slowing the champion’s reactions. Sensing a shift, he pressed forward with renewed confidence. Early in the tenth, the breakthrough arrived. A crisp combination sent Simpson to the canvas, and although the Barnsley man beat the count, he was badly shaken.

What followed was a relentless assault. Williamson dropped Simpson again and again, each knockdown draining the champion’s resistance. After the fourth visit to the canvas in the round, the referee intervened, bringing the contest to an end and sparing Simpson further punishment. The official stoppage crowned a remarkable comeback victory.

It was a night defined by courage and perseverance, but ultimately by decisive finishing. Troy Williamson transformed a gruelling contest into a career-defining triumph, while Callum Simpson showed heart in defeat despite losing his titles in dramatic fashion. In the end, Williamson stood tall as the new champion after halting Simpson in one of the most memorable domestic fights of the year.