WHEREAS, Julian “J-Rock” Williams is a native Philadelphian, graduate of Overbrook High School, and a rising star in the world of professional boxing; and
WHEREAS, Williams started boxing at the age of 12, despite the challenges of homelessness and family drug addition that he faced during his youth. In 2005, at the age of 15, Williams won the Silver Golden Gloves Regional Title. At 16, he wo the Junior Olympic Regionals; and
WHEREAS, Williams’ early focus and dedication to his craft allowed him to win countless national tournaments as an amateur boxer. During his amateur career, he had a record of 77-10; and
WHEREAS, Williams made his debut as a professional boxer in May 2010, where he defeated Antonio Chavez Fernandez with a Round 1 knockout. In 2011, Williams’ record was 4-0-1. Williams shined throughout 2013, competing in a host of fights against veteran boxers, and winning an eight-round unanimous decision over former 154-pound World Champion Joachim Alcine; and
WHEREAS, Williams spent the next few years of his career focusing on becoming a champion. In 2017 and 2018, Williams had an undefeated record; and
WHEREAS, On May 11, 2019, Williams defeated Jarrett Hurd for the World Boxing Association Super Welterweight Title, the International Boxing Organization World Super Welterweight Title and the International Boxing Federation World Super Welterweight Title; and
WHEREAS, With this recent championship win, Philadelphia now is home to three boxing champions at the same time: Julian Williams, Tevin Farmer and Stephen Fulton, Jr; and
WHEREAS, Julian “J-Rock” Williams’ strength, determination and resilience has made Philadelphia, especially West Philadelphia, extremely proud;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That it hereby recognizes and honors West Philly’s own, Julian Williams, the new International Super Welterweight Boxing Champion.
FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this resolution be presented to Julian Williams as evidence of the sincere respect and admiration of this legislative body.
End