Willy Hutchinson Wins WBC Light-Heavyweight Title After Revenge Victory Over Joshua Buatsi
Willy Hutchinson Beats Joshua Buatsi to Win WBC Light-Heavyweight Title
Willy Hutchinson has become the new World Boxing Council (WBC) light-heavyweight champion after defeating Joshua Buatsi by unanimous decision in Manchester. The Scottish boxer produced an impressive performance to avenge his previous defeat and claim the biggest victory of his professional career.
Hutchinson won the highly anticipated rematch at the AO Arena on Saturday, November 7, 2026. The judges scored the contest 117-112, 115-113 and 115-113 in his favour.
The victory also made Hutchinson a world champion for the first time. He used his speed, movement and accurate counterpunching to frustrate Buatsi throughout much of the 12-round contest. <Cite refs={[“turn477282search0″,”turn477282news19”]}/>
Hutchinson Takes Revenge on Buatsi
The fight carried extra significance because of their first meeting in September 2024.
Buatsi won that encounter by split decision after knocking Hutchinson down twice. Although Hutchinson mounted a determined late comeback, he could not prevent the London-born boxer from securing victory.
The rematch gave Hutchinson an opportunity to settle the rivalry. This time, he approached the contest with greater patience and control.
From the opening rounds, Hutchinson used his footwork to stay out of Buatsi’s range. He also landed quick combinations whenever his opponent struggled to close the distance.
Buatsi found it difficult to establish a consistent rhythm. His opponent’s movement forced him to work harder for clean punches.
Hutchinson’s ability to control the distance became one of the key factors in the contest. He frequently made Buatsi miss before responding with accurate shots of his own.
Buatsi Struggles to Find His Rhythm
Buatsi entered the contest hoping to secure the vacant WBC title and strengthen his position among the leading fighters in the light-heavyweight division.
However, Hutchinson’s speed and defensive movement created problems from the early rounds.
The Scottish fighter remained composed under pressure and avoided many of Buatsi’s heavier punches. His counterattacks also helped him build an advantage on the judges’ scorecards.
Buatsi improved as the fight progressed. He increased his aggression in the later rounds and found more opportunities to attack the body.
His late rally made the closing stages more competitive. However, the early advantage Hutchinson had established proved difficult to overcome.
Hutchinson remained disciplined during the final round. He avoided unnecessary exchanges and protected his lead until the final bell.
When the judges announced their scores, all three awarded the victory to Hutchinson.
Vacant WBC Title Raises the Stakes
The championship became available after David Benavidez vacated the WBC light-heavyweight title to move up to the cruiserweight division.
The fight had initially been planned as a contest for the interim championship. However, the change in circumstances elevated the bout to a full world-title fight.
That decision increased the stakes for both boxers.
For Hutchinson, the opportunity represented a chance to fulfil his ambition of becoming a world champion. For Buatsi, it offered another opportunity to secure a major title after years of competing at the highest level.
Hutchinson ultimately seized his chance with a performance that combined technical skill and tactical discipline. <Cite refs={[“turn477282news3″,”turn477282news19”]}/>
Hutchinson Calls Out Anthony Yarde
Following his victory, Hutchinson wasted little time identifying his preferred next opponent.
The new champion called out British light-heavyweight contender Anthony Yarde, expressing interest in another major domestic showdown.
Yarde also indicated that he would welcome the fight, creating the possibility of another significant contest in the division.
However, any potential bout would depend on negotiations, promotional arrangements and the decisions of both fighters.
For now, Hutchinson can celebrate a career-defining achievement. His victory over Buatsi has established him as a world champion and created fresh opportunities for his future.
What Next for Joshua Buatsi?
The defeat represents a significant setback for Buatsi, who had hoped to capture the vacant WBC title.
He showed determination during the later rounds, but his slow start allowed Hutchinson to control much of the contest.
Buatsi will now need to assess his options and determine the best route back towards another world-title opportunity.
At 33, he still has experience and ability that could help him remain competitive in the division. However, his response to this defeat will be important for the next stage of his career.
Conclusion
Willy Hutchinson’s victory over Joshua Buatsi marked a major moment in British boxing. He avenged his 2024 defeat, claimed the vacant WBC light-heavyweight title and established himself as a world champion.
His speed, movement and accurate counterpunching proved decisive in Manchester.
With Anthony Yarde emerging as a possible future opponent, Hutchinson could soon face another major test. For now, the Scottish boxer has achieved his dream and given himself a strong platform for the next chapter of his career.
About the Author
