Xavier Wilson looking to impress tomorrow night

Xavier Wilson (11-2-1) is facing Christian Duran (19-2-1) Saturday night on the Canelo/Saunders undercard, in a scheduled 8 round welterweight bout. Wilson is a quirky, outgoing guy, who along with his head trainer Louie Gibbs, invented a unique overhand right type punch called the "Monkey Slap." He even spent some time in Lawton, Oklahoma working at Chick Fil A as the infamous cow mascot. But he’s always loved to fight.

“I’ve always liked fighting,” Wilson confessed. “Punching, kicking, all forms of combat are great. In 2012 I started going to Grady Brewer’s gym and just started working. Then I met my coach Louie Gibbs, and decided this was what I wanted to do with my life.” From southwest Oklahoma Wilson moved with his brother to San Antonio, and between fights he’s worked as a personal fitness trainer growing a clientele he’s also introduced to boxing.

Wilson and coach Gibbs have worked to create a style patterned after his favorite fighter, Sugar Ray Leonard. “I definitely like to use the jab. I take pride in my jab and speed. I like to emulate the style of Sugar Ray Leonard but I dont quite have his footwork yet.”

Facing Duran, he’s looking forward to put it all together and come out on top.

Saturday night against Duran is the career step Wilson has been waiting for, even though it came at a difficult time. “This fight was made last minute, I just had a death in the family, but it’s a fight that’s a big deal. I feel like Duran, who has fought mostly in Mexico, they’re using me as a test for him. But I have the confidence to go out there and make it happen. This is the fight we’ve been waiting for so we’re making the most of it.”

From the days at Chick Fil A to fighting, living and training in San Antonio, Wilson has developed a strong following, all hoping to see Duran get the patented Monkey Slap. “ I love and thank of all of my fans and supporters,” Wilson said. “Like I said, this fight is a big deal, and I feel the support and the push. And I want to remind everyone to have confidence and shoot for your dreams.”

To keep up with Xavier Wilson, follow him on Instagram, @professorxwilson