Super Rugby
Sonny Bill survives boxing bout unscathed
ESPNscrum Staff
June 5, 2011
Sonny Bill Williams greets All Blacks coach Graham Henry after winning his fourth professional boxing bout, Trusts Stadium, Waitakere, New Zealand, June 4, 2011
Sonny Bill Williams greets All Blacks coach Graham Henry © Getty Images
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Crusaders centre Sonny Bill Williams emerged from his fourth professional boxing bout unscathed on Saturday night, winning a unanimous decision over 43-year-old Alipate Liav'a at Trusts Stadium in Waitakere.

The fight, to raise money for the ongoing Christchurch earthquake relief effort, went the distance but Williams was a comfortable winner on the judge's cards, taking all six rounds.

The 25-year-old was accompanied to the ring by fellow Crusaders Ben and Owen Franks, while All Black coaches Graham Henry, Wayne Smith and Steve Hansen were joined in the crowd by Crusaders boss Todd Blackadder.

"A couple of times I thought that I had him but he is like a rock," Williams said afterwards. "I was pretty nervous with this being my first fight in New Zealand. Now I can concentrate on the Crusaders and All Blacks."

The Crusaders, on a bye from Super Rugby this week, face the Blues next weekend in a game that could go a long way to deciding which side tops the New Zealand conference. The Blues currently hold a two-point advantage but have lost their last three matches.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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