Ricardo Williams Jr. places his silver medal around his infant son's neck. (Jeff Swinger photos) | ZOOM |

        HEBRON — Amid chants of “U.S.A!” Ricardo Williams Jr. received a champion-size homecoming Monday night, stepping off his plane into the waiting arms of family, friends and well-wishers.

        Nearly 100 people were at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport to greet the light welterweight Olympic boxer.

        They carried signs, balloons and American flags, and wore T-shirts emblazoned with the 19-year-old West End man's face.

        Cradling his 7-month-old son, Ricardo III, Williams lovingly placed his silver medal over his son's head and kissed the infant on the cheek.

FIGHT COVERAGE

Stories and photos from Williams' gold-medal fight

        “He's my biggest medal. I'm taking punches now, so he won't have to later,” he said of his son.

        While he aimed for the gold in Sydney, Williams was glad for the chance to represent his country.

        He said he'll always remember the feeling he had when the medal was placed around his neck, but he is already looking to the future.

Williams will be honored downtown next week. | ZOOM |

        He sought the advice of heavyweight boxing champion Evander Holyfield, whom he said he spoke with before returning home.

        “My next step will be to turn pro. I'll probably wait a month and then weigh my options,” he said. “Look out, pro world, here we come!”

        Williams and fellow teammate and Cincinnatian Dante Craig will be honored with a key to the city, said Cincinnati Vice Mayor Minette Cooper, a well-wisher.

        Councilwoman Alicia Reece, who was also present, said a celebration to honor Williams is scheduled for noon Oct. 11 at Fountain Square.

Complete Olympics coverage at Cincinnati.com/olympics

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