British light-heavyweights Joshua Buatsi and Willy Hutchinson will meet again on Saturday in Manchester for the vacant WBC world title. Their first encounter in September 2024 saw Buatsi knock down Hutchinson twice en route to a split-decision victory. Since then, Hutchinson has won two fights to earn a second shot at the championship.
BBC Sport gathered predictions from ten boxing figures, with opinions evenly divided. Five experts back Buatsi to repeat his win, while five favour Hutchinson to avenge his loss.
Two-weight world champion Chantelle Cameron expects Buatsi to stop Hutchinson in the later rounds, between rounds nine and 12. Former cruiserweight world champion Tony Bellew also picks Buatsi, possibly by late stoppage, noting it is rare for a fighter to turn around a rematch after losing the first bout. European super-featherweight champion Zelfa Barrett believes Buatsi has Hutchinson's number and will win on points, citing Hutchinson's vulnerability to body shots. Former WBO middleweight champion Denzel Bentley predicts Buatsi on points with a potential knockdown, while DAZN presenter Ade Olapido slightly favours Buatsi but acknowledges Hutchinson's improvement.
On the other side, British heavyweight David Allen says Hutchinson has improved massively while questioning Buatsi's progress. Former world champion Carl Frampton edges Hutchinson on points, citing his maturity and form. European cruiserweight champion Viddal Riley backs Hutchinson, feeling he is fresher and hungrier. Boxing manager Sam Jones, who has known Hutchinson since his professional debut, believes the Scot is in his physical and mental prime and will win. Former middleweight world champion Darren Barker also picks Hutchinson, pointing to his growth since the first fight and questions about Buatsi's recent performances.
