With David Benavidez moving up to challenge for a cruiserweight title, the WBC has declared its light heavyweight title to be vacant. Joshua Buatsi and Willy Hutchinson will share the ring once again on November 7th at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, in a rematch for the vacant title. More than two years after their first encounter, the two fighters will have the opportunity to write a new chapter in their rivalry. Buatsi will look to repeat his victory, while Hutchinson will seek to reverse the result and capture the WBC belt. The fight will be broadcast live on DAZN. Their first fight took place on September 21, 2024, at Wembley Stadium in London. After twelve rounds, Buatsi claimed a split decision victory, with scores of 117-108 and 115-110 in his favor, while the third judge scored the fight 113-112 for Hutchinson.

 

Buatsi’s knockdowns in the sixth and ninth rounds proved decisive. However, Hutchinson got back to his feet on both occasions and continued fighting hard until the final bell, showing the determination that helped set the stage for a rematch.

 

Hutchinsonm from Scotland, enters the contest with a record of 20 wins, two losses and 14 knockouts. 

 

Buatsi, who was born in Ghana and represents Great Britain, holds a record of 20 wins, one loss and 13 knockouts. In Manchester, he will have the opportunity to earn another victory over a familiar opponent and claim his first WBC world championship.