21 Sep

Exclusive: Johnny Nelson's Prediction for Buatsi vs. Hutchinson Fight

In an exclusive prediction for Ready to Fight, former world champion and renowned boxing expert Johnny Nelson shared his thoughts on the interim WBO light heavyweight title fight (up to 79.4 kg) between Joshua Buatsi (18-0, 13 KOs) and Willie Hutchinson (18-1, 13 KOs).

– Johnny, the Buatsi vs. Hutchinson fight on the Joshua vs. Dubois undercard is a highly anticipated one. On paper, they are very close. Buatsi has yet to reach the world-class form he had as an amateur. Will this be his moment, or will Willie Hutchinson replicate his upset against Craig Richards and create another shock?

– Let me remind you of something. There's a little-known fact about Willie Hutchinson: he was an extremely talented amateur, but he didn't dedicate himself to boxing the way others did. Now, he's got his life sorted, and if Joshua Buatsi underestimates him – Willie Hutchinson will snatch the victory.

I know Willie, he trained in my gym. I know his character, and I know how good a fighter he is. This guy can fight, and that's why he beat Craig Richards, because "Spider" thought he'd handle him easily. But Willie’s old school – he boxed, he fought, he has boxing skills and heart. If Joshua Buatsi underestimates him, he’ll lose. I expect to see the classic Joshua Buatsi. But if he shows anything less, he’ll lose to Willie. Don’t be surprised if this becomes the upset of the night.

The fight will take place on September 21 at Wembley Stadium in London, UK, on the undercard of former world champion Anthony Joshua (28-3, 25 KOs) versus IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois (21-2, 20 KOs).

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