All Black chases NZ boxing belt
All Black star Sonny Bill Williams will fight for the vacant New Zealand heavyweight title in February.
Williams, a member of the team that won the rugby World Cup earlier this year, will face Richard Tutaki in Hamilton on February 8, less than three weeks before his debut with his new Super Rugby side, Waikato Chiefs.
Undefeated in four fights against journeyman opponents, Williams said on Monday Tutaki presented a real challenge.
"I think every time you step into the ring, there's a bit of fear in there but that motivates you to train hard and do your best," said Williams, wearing a snappy grey suit.
"He's a seasoned campaigner, 40 fights, so hopefully I haven't bitten off too much, but I'll be right," Williams said of Tutaki, a professional for the past ten years.
The 33-year-old "Tutaki Express", has a record of 19 wins and 21 defeats, with one draw in 41 fights. He lost his last bout in April after an 18-month break from the sport.
Williams won his last fight by unanimous decision in June, beating 43-year-old Tongan Alipate Liava'a.
However, he but was criticised for being unable to finish his opponent in the six-round fight in Auckland.
"After the last fight I said to my manager I want to try and step up in class ... I was offered the chance to fight for the belt and it's not every day you get the opportunity," added Williams.
"Just really excited. Hopefully this is something I can add to my sporting achievements ... As a boxer I'm always evolving and I think there's a lot of improvement in me."
Williams's boxing aspirations have stoked controversy in New Zealand, where fans and pundits fret that the barnstorming 26-year-old could do himself serious damage and endanger his rugby career.
Williams, who played at centre and wing in the All Blacks' march to their second World Cup, has nonetheless secured an endorsement of sorts from the New Zealand Rugby Union, who permitted him a limited number of fights in his one-year contract.