Moreton Bay’s favourite son Liam Wilson stands on the precipice of another world title opportunity. The Redcliffe-born super featherweight will face Youssef Dib in a crucial rematch at the South Bank Piazza that could pave the way for global glory.
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A Controversial Loss
Wilson’s path to prominence reached a dramatic peak in February 2023 when he nearly dethroned WBO champion Emanuel Navarrete. In what became known as the “28-second robbery,” Wilson had the Mexican champion down and hurt in the fourth round. However, controversy struck when Navarrete’s dislodged mouthguard led to an extended count, allowing the champion crucial recovery time. Despite the setback, the moment proved Wilson belongs among boxing’s elite.
“I felt like I won it fair and square,” Wilson reflects on the Navarrete fight. “I’ve definitely moved on, however it’s a fight I definitely want to run back,” he said.
The Redemption Road for Liam Wilson
Following another valiant effort against Oscar Valdez—where he came within “a split second” of victory according to his opponent—Wilson’s world title dreams remain intact. His current WBO #4 ranking positions him perfectly for another championship run, but first comes the immediate challenge: a rematch with Sydney’s Youssef Dib on 1 March at South Bank Piazza.
Their first encounter in July earned No Limit Boxing’s Fight of the Year honours. Wilson won with an eighth-round stoppage, though Dib’s strong start kept fans on edge. The rematch promises similar drama, with Dib vowing to return “stronger, smarter, and hungrier.”
Hometown Glory Beckons
No Limit Boxing CEO George Rose sees the bigger picture, working behind the scenes to potentially bring a world title fight to Redcliffe’s Kayo Stadium. While discussions remain preliminary, the prospect of Wilson challenging for global honours in his backyard has captured local imagination.
“Winning a world title in Queensland, not far from where I grew up, would mean the absolute world to me,” Wilson says.
Training at All Star Boxing Academy in Lawnton, Wilson has become more than just a boxer to the Moreton Bay region—he’s a symbol of perseverance. His 14-3 (8KO) record tells only part of the story; it’s his willingness to face boxing’s elite and his ability to rise from setbacks that has earned him devoted local support.
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Showdown at the Piazza
The upcoming rematch card reflects Queensland’s boxing depth, featuring promising talents like Kirra Rushton, Jack Bowen, Floyd Masson, Paris Olympian Shannon Davey, and World Amateur Champion Cooper O’Connell.
For Wilson, however, the focus remains singular: dispatch Dib convincingly and move one step closer to the world title dream that began on Redcliffe’s shores. “When it mattered most, I showed why I’m levels above,” Wilson states with characteristic confidence. “This time, I’ll make it even more decisive and prove there’s no question who’s the best.”
Published 23-January-2025
