Leeds First Direct Arena set to host Callum Simpson Troy Williamson rematch
Callum Simpson has pulled the trigger on his rematch clause and is adamant he will win back his British, European and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles from Troy Williamson — with promoter Ben Shalom predicting the sequel could become a fight of the year contender.
Simpson, who trains under the tutelage of respected coach, Mark Hurley of Dickys Gym in Batley Barnsley responded immediately, committing to a second bout that promises even higher stakes and an even bigger stage.
Boxer promoter Ben Shalom said the rematch is expected to land once again at Leeds’ First Direct Arena or at Barnsley’s football stadium, where Simpson has already proven he can headline in front of a passionate home crowd.
Shalom said the defeat was a tough one to take but believes the loss could be a defining moment in Simpson’s career — and that the rematch has all the ingredients to be one of the standout fights of the year.
“He’ll be gutted but it’s boxing and he got punished,” Shalom said. “He has the chance to put it right and I believe he will. It’s just adjustment.”
Shalom was keen to underline that Simpson’s setback was not down to effort, fitness or ability, but to the razor-thin margins that separate victory from defeat at championship level.
“I don’t think it’s about how hard he works, I don’t think it’s about how fit he is, I don’t think it’s about how good he is,” Shalom explained. “In these types of fights game plan matters, keeping your head matters and going to win a fight rather than put on a fight.”
Williamson’s composure and discipline proved decisive in the first bout, capitalising by frustrating Simpson and steering it away from being a tactical battle. It’s a lesson Shalom believes Simpson will take fully on board heading into the rematch.
“I think if he can pull himself together he can turn this one around,” Shalom added. “He will learn a lot from that fight.”
With three major titles back on the line and two potential blockbuster venues under consideration, the rematch is shaping up as one of the most anticipated domestic clashes of 2026.
For Simpson, it’s a chance at redemption in front of his own fans. For Williamson, it’s an opportunity to prove his doubters that the victory was no fluke.
Simpson revealed he was confident he was in control before the stoppage.
“I felt I was ahead in most of the rounds,” he said. “I knew it was always going to be a tough fight with Troy and I got caught by a very good shot.
“I just want to thank everyone who came out tonight and everyone who’s still here now.
“I’ve just been put down and everyone is still here, cheering my name. That’s something I’ll never forget.
“We’ve got the rematch. I’ll get straight back to work, come back stronger and put this right. Thank you for sticking with me — I will be back.”
When asked about the rematch, Shalom suggested April, May or June to the assembled media, with Simpson and his coach, Mark Hurley and Manager, Kevin maree set to plot his bid to retain his titles.
And if the first fight was any indication, Shalom may well be right — this rematch could be a genuine fight of the year.