The success could put Williams in line as a possible challenger to WBA title holder John Ruiz.

Williams has signed a promotional deal with Don King, who also handles the American world champion.

The extra firepower of Williams, who weighed in 15lbs heavier than the challenger at 18st 5lbs, was crucial.

But the champion failed to find the spectacular finish he wanted and he was disappointed by his performance.

"I was very disappointed - he exposed my rust," said Williams.

The 28-year-old had been restricted to just seven previous rounds in three fights since undergoing an operation on his dislocated right shoulder in October 2000.

"I only had one sparring partner for this fight and I need to go to America or bring some over in future," he added.

Williams wants a quick return to action to gain the one win he needs to make the Lonsdale belt his for keeps.

He said: "You go down to their level in this sort of fight, but one more won't hurt."

'A beating'

He admitted he was surprised when the stoppage came after 32 seconds of round seven.

"I knew he wasn't hurt when I put him down in the fourth and thought he had quite a bit left when they stopped it," Williams said.

"But they stopped him from taking a beating. He was going to get one the longer it went on."

The bout was the first British heavyweight title fight televised by the BBC since since Lennox Lewis stopped Gary Mason 11 years ago to become champion.