Liam Williams admits his career hangs in the balance as he prepares for a “must-win” return to the ring.

But the former world title challenger says that should he get past Nizar Trimech in London on Friday night then he can focus on securing another shot at the middleweight champions.

Welsh hero Williams, 30, is back in the ring after over nine months out, following his valiant defeat to Chris Eubank Junior, on a big night in Cardiff in February.

And the ‘Machine’ says domestic dust-ups with contenders, including Felix Cash, could be part of his journey back to world title contention.

“I am feeling a bit of excitement, relief to be back in the ring but I’m also nervous because I’ve put a lot of pressure on myself,” Williams told Probellum.com.

“This is a must-win fight.  If I lose, where do I go?!  If I was to lose on Friday, I would say: ‘I’m done’.  I am more nervous for this fight than when I boxed Andrade for the world title!

“But I am fully confident that this is not going to happen because when I hurt this guy – and 100% there will be a point when I do – that is when I will go in for the kill.” 

Britain’s middleweight rankings include the unbeaten Cash, Danny Dignum and Denzel Bentely, who recently challenged for the WBO world title.

And when asked if he expected to have to face any of his domestic rivals, in order to land another crack at the world title, Williams (23-4-1) replied: “I imagine those names will come into the mix somewhere along the line next year but, for the record, I will hammer every one of those guys.  Felix Cash would get knocked out and so would Denzel Bentley.”

Williams has the bit between his teeth and is extra motivated for this fight because he feels like a forgotten man.

“This fight has made me realize that some people are just glory hunters.  I had a million and one friends for the Eubank fight but it’s only family and close friends this time.  So, I have a bee in my bonnet because when you are most in need, people are not there.  I can’t wait to put on a performance so that people are talking again.

“This is, realistically, the last phase of my career.  I might have two years left, or three or four, but this is the last phase.  And at this point next year, and looking to early 2024, I believe I will be fighting for a world title again.  Next year is going to be a process of regaining my form.”