Unified 154-pound world champion Julian “J-Rock” Williams (27-1-1, 16 KOs) will defend his WBA and IBF titles in a Philadelphia homecoming against Jeison Rosario (19-1-1, 13 KOs) on January 18 on FOX from Temple University’s Liacouras Center in Philadelphia.
“This is going to be great having a homecoming fight back in Philadelphia,” said Williams. “I’m excited for the crowd that’ll be at the Liacouras Center and to be back fighting on FOX. I haven’t fought in Philadelphia since 2011, so I can’t wait to get back in the ring in front of all my people. Rosario is a good fighter and I’m very familiar with him. I know he packs a solid punch and that he’s been on a tear ever since his lone loss to Nathaniel Gallimore. So he’ll be a stiff test for me, but I’m prepared to win. Most of all, I’m just excited to defend my titles and as a unified champion in front of my hometown crowd.”
The action will also feature undefeated rising star Chris “Prime Time” Colbert (13-0, 5 KOs) taking on former champion Jezreel Corrales (23-3, 9 KOs) for the WBA interim super featherweight title in the co-main event.
J-Roc is “old school” Philly with a good trainer in Breadman. Not mentioned on the card is IBO champion Stephen “Cool Steph” Fulton who is unbeaten. I look forward to covering this one.