Joshua Buatsi Looks Set To Once Again Turn Down Dmitry Bivol World Title Fight
Joshua Buatsi’s Trainer Has Indicated He Will Reject A World Title Shot Against Bivol
In the absence of an undisputed clash with WBC, IBF, WBO champion Artur Beterbiev, Dmitry Bivol (21-0, 11 KOs) is expected to defend his WBA Light Heavyweight championship in May/June with June 3 in Abu Dhabi a possibility, NoSmokeSport understands. The US is also an option for Bivol’s next fight in anticipation of a Canelo Alvarez rematch in September.
Eddie Hearn, the promoter of Bivol, would like to match him with his British contender Joshua Buatsi (16-0, 13 KOs). Hearn told International Boxing News that Buatsi has turned down the fight with Bivol on a previous occasion but he would like to make this fight next. Hearn also revealed several weeks ago that a contract had already been sent to the British Ghanian for his next fight, rumored to be a contract to face Bivol.
Buatsi’s trainer Virgil Hunter went on ThaBoxingVoice on Wednesday to discuss the future of the Light Heavyweight contender. Hunter was dismissive of a clash with Bivol next “Right now, this fight (Bivol) is a couple of fights away. He (is) most definitely a couple (of) fights away from a title shot”
Hunter believes his charge isn’t ready for a world title shot yet and still needs a few more fights. The American trainer also confirmed he does have a say in who Buatsi fights and therefore it seems likely Buatsi will once again turn down a championship fight that is rumored to be on the table.
The 2016 Olympic medalist is out of contract with long-time promoter Matchroom but the global promotional company still has matching rights on his career which would allow them to continue working with Buatsi if they can match the terms of any competing offer.
Hearn believes that Buatsi will remain a Matchroom fighter and revealed to BoxingScene that he is willing to match any offer made to the top ten light heavyweights. Queensberry, who represent Anthony Yarde, and BOXXER, who are new to the market and have bid aggressively, are the promoters likely to make approaches to the 29-year-old.
Also, Read; WWE Announce A Major International Event For April 2023