Carlos Adames Withdraws from Austin Williams Title Fight

Middleweight champion hospitalized due to dehydration before weigh-ins

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:23am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

WBC middleweight champion Carlos Adames has withdrawn from his title defense against Austin 'Ammo' Williams scheduled for tomorrow after falling ill due to dehydration before the weigh-ins. Adames was reportedly hospitalized, leaving Williams' team scrambling to find a last-minute replacement opponent.

Why it matters

This is a significant setback for both fighters, as Adames was looking to make his second title defense and Williams was hoping to capture his first world championship. The withdrawal also raises questions about Adames' health and conditioning, as well as the potential rescheduling of this high-profile middleweight matchup.

The details

Adames (24-1-1, 18 KO) has fought just once in the last 19 months, a controversial draw with Hamzah Sheeraz last February. Williams (19-1, 13 KO) is 3-0 since a less successful effort against Sheeraz in 2024, with his best win coming against veteran Patrice Volny last March. It's unclear if this fight will be rescheduled, as Adames is also overdue for a mandatory title defense against Meiirim Nursultanov.

  • Adames was hospitalized due to dehydration before the weigh-ins on January 29, 2026.
  • The title fight between Adames and Williams was scheduled for January 31, 2026.

The players

Carlos Adames

The reigning WBC middleweight champion with a record of 24-1-1 and 18 knockouts.

Austin 'Ammo' Williams

The challenger with a record of 19-1 and 13 knockouts, looking to capture his first world title.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

It's unclear if this fight will be rescheduled, as Adames is also overdue for a mandatory title defense against Meiirim Nursultanov.

The takeaway

This withdrawal highlights the challenges of making weight in professional boxing and the potential health risks for fighters. It also raises questions about the future of this high-profile middleweight matchup and Adames' ability to defend his title successfully.