Tonight, Austin ‘Ammo’ Williams headlines his first ever professional boxing card when he takes on Patrice Volny at the Caribe Royale in Orlando, Florida. Williams hopes tonight will be the start of many more headlining events.
(Credit: Melina Pizano/Matchroom)
The card itself features many notable boxers returning to the ring after long layoffs. Edgar Berlanga in the co-main event returns from his September super fight against Canelo Alvarez, he’s set to take on Jonathan Gonzalez-Ortiz. In what he’s stated is a small return fight that’ll open way to a much bigger fight in New York later this year. Jamaine Ortiz faces Yomar Alamo in the undercard and U.S. Olympian Omarion Jones makes his professional debut when he takes on Alessio Mastronunzio.
Patrice Volny could pose a challenge for Ammo Williams tonight, in that he is a tall, lengthy boxer with a difficult defense. In his last match against Steven Butler, Volny utilized a high guard shell defense that made it difficult for Butler to penetrate. Volny was very economical in the first four rounds, but increased his output strategically, selectively choosing his openings, and punishing Butler when he did attack. Williams had difficulties with the tall and lengthy Hamzah Sheeraz, who fought him at mid to long range. Sheeraz was effective in landing at this range due to Williams’ poor guard. Ammo suffered his first professional loss against Sheeraz, losing by technical knockout in the 11th round.
Williams attributes the loss to personal struggles he experienced during training camp for the match when he lost his uncle. He wasn’t sleeping and struggled to maintain focus. He is now mentally refreshed and focused 100 percent on this match with Volny. He aims to show the world he’s a headliner and has what it takes to challenge the best in the middleweight division. At yesterday’s weigh-in, he looked energetic, jumping up and down, and stating that he would put on a show.
In his last match against Gian Garrido, an 8-rounder, Williams got off to a slow start against an opponent many expected he would finish very early. Ammo must now capitalize on his big opportunity and perform to expectation. He must put on a spectacular performance by dominantly defeating Volny. He can’t afford to suffer another setback as he did when he lost to Sheeraz in Saudi Arabia.
Butler had limited success in a volume attack when he fought Volny by going around or straight through Volny’s shell defense. Williams must seek to increase his output as he’s been low output in his last two fights. An economical approach will not help him against Volny. He must also keep a tight guard and box at close range to be effective. Doing so will allow him to land and open up Volny. The stage is set, Ammo must now go and perform and give the performance of his career.
Last Updated on 03/15/2025
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