Former Olympian Joshua Buatsi might be on the verge of getting his first world title fight.
Buatsi won a bronze medal at the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro and turned professional with plenty of momentum behind him. He won his first 19 fights, including victories over the likes of Dan Azeez, Craig Richards and Willy Hutchinson, with 13 coming by way of knockout.
However, when he stepped up to face former two-weight world champion Callum Smith, he took a unanimous points loss after 12 rounds in what was called the fight of the year.
Back in November 2025, he got back to winning ways with a majority decision over Zach Parker and now, a new post on X claims he could fight for a world title next time out due to a decision made by WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion David Benavidez.
“Joshua Buatsi and Willy Hutchinson’s November 7 rematch could be for the full WBC light-heavyweight title. David Benavidez has confirmed he will not return to 175lbs, potentially vacating the belt. An official WBC update is anticipated soon. #Boxing #BuatsiHutchinson.”
Originally, Buatsi vs Hutchinson was for the interim WBC title, but with ‘The Mexican Monster’ now officially saying he’s staying at cruiserweight and likely to fight Michal Cieslak for the WBC belt before the winner then faces Jai Opetaia, his old WBC light heavyweight title could become vacant.
The first fight was at Wembley Stadium in September 2024 and saw Buatsi twice knock Hutchinson to the canvas before the judges scored the contest in his favour 117-108 and 115-110 respectively, while the third gave it 113-112 to his opponent. Hutchinson has fought twice since, beating Mark Jeffers by TKO and Ezra Taylor on points back in March.
