Cuba’s Yoenis Tellez has practically become a regular at the Caribe Royale Orlando, but he will step up to the challenge against former unified champion Julian Williams at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. The pair will go toe-to-toe for the interim WBA junior middleweight title on the undercard of Gervonta Davis vs. Lamont Roach Jr.

While Tellez is eager to continue his ascent in the division, Williams will look to establish himself as one of the top contenders following a series of bad performances. However, does this mean the Cuban boxer will run through Williams like a bullet train? Well, the answer is not that simple, so let’s crunch some numbers.

Tale of the tape

A boxer’s resume reveals a lot, and for the most analytical among us, it can offer valuable insight into how a fight between Yoenis Tellez and Julian Williams might unfold. Let’s start with the Cuban prospect.

Tellez (9-0, 7 KOs) is an undefeated rising star set to challenge for his first major title. Despite his limited professional experience, he has been making waves in the division, quickly climbing the ranks with a mix of skill, power, and composure. On the opposite side, Williams (24-9-1, 17 KOs) brings a wealth of experience, not just in sheer numbers but against elite-level opposition. 

His resume includes fights against top-tier names like Carlos Adames, Vladimir Hernandez, Jeison Rosario, and Jermall Charlo—proof that it takes a special fighter to get the better of him. However, Williams’ recent activity raises concerns. Since 2019, he has fought only once per year, while Tellez has remained consistently active, often competing twice or more annually.

In terms of punching power, Tellez holds a significant edge, boasting a 77.78% knockout rate compared to Williams’ 58.62%. However, what makes this matchup particularly intriguing is that Williams isn’t the first seasoned veteran Tellez has faced. Time and again, the Cuban has showcased his ability to break down experienced opposition with a methodical and relentless approach.

Ultimately, their resumes suggest Tellez has the tools to overcome the experience gap and secure a victory. As for how the fight will end, recent trends indicate that Tellez tends to take his opponents into the later rounds before closing the show. Expect either a late stoppage or a clear decision win in his favor.

Yoenis Tellez vs. Julian Williams: Who do the attributes favor?

Sometimes, a boxer’s physical attributes can overshadow their skills—not everyone can be Mike Tyson. But is that the case in this fight? Both Yoenis Tellez and Julian Williams stand at an identical 5′10″ (178 cm), but Tellez holds a significant advantage in reach. The Cuban boasts a 74″ (188 cm) wingspan, compared to Williams’ 72½″ (184 cm). 

This extra reach could allow Tellez to dictate the pace of the fight, keeping Williams at bay with his jab and setting up combinations from a safer distance. On the other hand, Williams will need to find ways to close the gap, work inside, and neutralize Tellez’s reach advantage. Age is another factor working in Tellez’s favor. 

At just 24 years old, he is entering his physical prime, with fresher legs, faster reflexes, and the ability to sustain a high work rate. Williams, at 34, is far from washed up, but he is at a point in his career where physical decline can begin to show. Experience is on his side—he has faced world-class opposition and held titles before—but can he keep up with the younger, hungrier fighter?

Weight could also play a role in how this fight plays out. The final weigh-ins will confirm where both fighters stand, but looking at their recent fights offers a strong indication. Tellez has been consistent, hitting the scales at 153¾ pounds in each of his last three bouts. Williams, however, has been fighting at middleweight, where he has weighed between 158 and 159 pounds. 

Cutting down to the super welterweight limit may drain him slightly, affecting his durability and endurance, especially if the fight goes into the later rounds. If both fighters come in at optimal weight, Tellez still appears to have the edge. His reach, youth, and natural size at super welterweight give him multiple advantages. 

However, Williams’ experience and ring IQ could serve as equalizers. He has been in tough fights before, knows how to adjust, and could use his veteran savvy to disrupt Tellez’s rhythm. That said, the odds still favor Tellez, who remains an unbeaten rising star in the division.

A win over Williams would be a statement victory for Tellez, proving he’s ready for bigger names and tougher challenges. If he delivers an impressive performance, he could soon be knocking on the door for a title shot or a major contender bout.

But in boxing, anything can happen. Will Tellez’s youth and physical advantages be too much for Williams, or does the veteran have one more big win left in him? Let’s hear your thoughts.