Paul Williams, a two-time world champion boxer, is preparing for the fight of his life after a motorcycle accident left him with a debilitating spinal cord injury that ended his boxing career.
He recently underwent surgery and is undergoing rehabilitation at the Shepherd Center , according to Channel 2 Action News.
"I told him this is going to be one of the biggest training sessions of your life, and he's ready for it," said Dr. Donald Leslie, who provided an update on Williams' condition during a news conference.
Williams, now in a wheelchair, cannot move his lower extremities, Leslie said. Williams' spinal cord is not completely severed, and Leslie said a small number of patients have regained the ability to walk after suffering similar injuries. However, he offered no guarantees.
George Peterson, Williams’ trainer, said the boxer appreciated the outpouring of support from fans.
"He's in a good state of mind," Peterson said.
Peterson met Williams' when the boxer was 16 years old and has seen him accomplish a lot.
"I've seen him come from behind so many times before. I've got faith he'll succeed," Peterson said.
On May 27, Williams lost control of his motorcycle and hit an embankment on South Marietta Parkway while traveling at high speed, a Marietta police spokesman said
Williams, a 30-year-old southpaw who lived in Grovetown, fought in several weight classes and compiled a 42-2 record, according to boxrec.com.
Nicknamed "the Punisher," he recorded 27 knockouts and was slated to fight Sept. 15 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. He was in Atlanta to attend his brother's wedding.
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