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Photo © Team Cannon
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Super middleweight prospect Rubin Williams is ready to step up. He says he wants it, he needs it, and he has to have it. Since his first round KO loss to Epifanio Mendoza back in June 2003, Williams has made a statement to the boxing community. By knocking out 3 of his last 4 opponents, he clearly wants to tell the world that "You ain't seen nothing yet." And Rubin wants to prove it by fighting Jeff Lacy. At 24-1, Williams has knocked out 15 of his opponents, with 14 of the kayos coming within the first 5 rounds. It is safe to say that Williams has the power to put his opposition to sleep, and if given the chance, that's just what he'll do. 'Mr. Hollywood' dropped by the Doghouse to talk about his career and what the future holds for him and his division.
Benny Henderson Jr.: Any news on your next fight and opponent?
Rubin Williams: I keep telling my manager that I'm ready to step up and fight anyone. I'd really like to get a crack at Jeff Lacy soon. The problem is that fight last year when I was too weak against Mendoza. I never should have tried to lose that much weight in such a little time. The weakness and light headedness made me look horrible. Now I have to carry that "monkey" around on my back. When I talk about stepping up, my manager just says things like, "Soon." But I feel like he's making me take baby steps. My last four opponents had a combined record of 170-37-2. I knocked three of them out. I think I deserve a shot at a bigger name. We'll see.
BH: If it was up to you, who would you step in the ring with next, and why?
RW: Like I said, I'd take Lacy tomorrow. I just want to prove myself. Redeem myself from that one big mistake.
BH: What is it like to work with the great Emanuel Steward?
RW: Manny is cool. He knows boxing, but he's so involved with promotions and management that he doesn't have the time to train all the fighters he has agreed to train. He needs to cut back a little bit, I think. But he's taught me a whole bunch.
BH: What inspired you to box?
RW: I'd like to say that I was a 90 pound weakling and went to the gym to learn how to stick up for myself, but I was always a little bit of a bully. I liked fighting in school and on the streets because I don't look like a fighter and people were always shocked when I'd get in a fight because I don't look tough. The girls think I'm too "cute" to be tough. It's kinda fun to surprise people.
BH: How did you get the nickname 'Mr. Hollywood'?
RW: At one time people called me 'Hollywood' because I looked like a movie star. But, I tell people it's because I make my opponents see the stars.
BH: So far who has been your toughest opponent to face?
RW: Kenny Bowman was my toughest fight because my right eye swelled shut in the second round. I had to dig deep to make it through the fight. Plus my coach, Emanuel, didn't show up to work my corner. I had to do it all. I learned plenty about myself that night. And Kenny Bowman is a good fighter. I don't know why he hasn't done more in the fight game. He has skills. Maybe he looked better when I could only see him out of one eye.
BH: You've had 15 kayos in 25 fights. 14 of those kayos have been within 5 rounds, one was in the 9th. Do you go straight for the KO, or does it just seem to happen that way?
RW: I'm a slow starter. It isn't a warming up thing though. I take my time to size an opponent up and try them for a few rounds. I'm in no hurry, but since that screw up last year, I've had some guys try to jump on me. I'm not playing that game any more. Jump on me now and I'll knock you the hell out!
BH: What has been your greatest accomplishment so far?
RW: You know, I feel so far away from where I want to be, that I can't even think of any accomplishments I've had. I got a one track mind right now and all I can think about is stepping up. I wish someone would convince my manager. I'M READY TO GO!
BH: What do you think the future holds for Rubin Williams?
RW: I know a big fight is coming. I know there isn't much in my weight class right now. Anyone above me in the rankings is welcomed to a piece of what I got. I know that someday, sooner or later, I'll get to show the real Rubin Williams to the world. And this time I'll be ready. It's showtime!
BH: Growing up who were your heroes?
RW: Ali, Hearns and Leonard. Leo Nolan has always been a hero to me too. There is no stopping him. He can't be discouraged.
BH: What do you think your greatest quality as a boxer is?
RW: I think I have some power and speed, but people say I fight smart. I'll go along with the people, but I feel fast and strong at 168.
BH: In closing, would you like to say anything to the fans and the guys in your division?
RW: To my fans I got to say, "You ain't seen nothing yet." To the fighters ahead of me in my division I say, "You ain't seen nothing yet either, until you fight me."
I would like to thank Rubin's manager John Carlisle for setting up this interview for me. I would also like to thank Rubin Williams for taking out the time for Doghouse and the fans. Anymore information on Ruben check out DETROIT IS OUR HOUSE!!!
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© Copyright / All Rights reserved: Doghouse Boxing 1998-2004
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By Benny Henderson Jr. (July 15, 2004) 
