Joshua Buatsi Vs Craig Richards
Joshua Buatsi and Craig Richards proceed for a head to head clash of British light-heavyweight contenders this Saturday.
Former WBA International champion Richards can also count an Olympic bronze medal and unbeaten history of record (15-0, 13 knockouts) among his accolades, and the 29-year-old most recently beat Ricards Bolotniks with an 11th-round finish in August.
Meanwhile, Richards, 32, broke off Marek Matyja in Round 6 in October to respond to his first ever professional loss in positive fashion.
Buatsi and Richards 17-2-1 (10 KOs) will face off in a main-event contest at the O2 Arena in London, and we’ve got you covered with all you need to know about the fight:
When is it?
The event will take place on Saturday 21 May at the O2 Arena in London.
The main card is set to begin at 7pm BST (11am PT, 1pm CT, 2pm ET), with ring walks for the main event scheduled for 10.15pm BST (2.15pm PT, 4.15pm CT, 5.15pm ET).
What has been Said so far?
Joshua Buatsi : “Two London boys coming together, it’s going to be a huge night,” said Buatsi. “The Light-Heavyweight scene in this country is thriving and I’m glad that we are able to get one of the biggest fights made. The crowd are going to be in for a treat. I am coming to win and nothing else, I am sure Richards is doing the same. He had a close fight with Bivol so will want to make things straight, but I have other plans. Win well and then push onto the World Title by any means necessary.”
Craig Richards: “We’re two top tier fighters from the UK,” said Richards. “This is one of the biggest London domestic clashes for a long time. This is a very exciting fight for us both, but also one the fans will enjoy. Buatsi has got his plans and I’m sure he be well prepared, but nobody is going to stop me from fulfilling my destiny of becoming a World Champion! He is a solid competitor and will be coming to win, but I am confident and believe I have the tools to get the job done. I proved myself at world level and I’m eager to prove that’s where I belong.”
What are experts saying?
Dave Coldwell - Top trainer
It’s potentially not as straightforward as what a lot of people might think. Buatsi gets hit with right hands. Richards is very awkward, very effective and he’s got a decent right hand on him. When it comes down to business, Buatsi’s very, very vicious. He’s a fast starter and Craig Richards can be a slow starter.
Prediction: “Buatsi”
Chris Billam-Smith - European champion
I predict a great fight. Richards now has the experience at world level, Buatsi has also gained experience in his last fight. I’m sitting on the fence! Both gentlemen, both great fighters.
Paul Ready - Boxing manager
I favour Buatsi by decision. I know a few who’ve seen them spar and said Richards disrupted his rhythm. I expect it to be a technical and physical fight.
Prediction: “Buatsi”
Andy Clarke - Boxing commentator
Buatsi by late stoppage. It’s a good fight for both men. I rate Richards highly, he’s a good all-round fighter and mentally strong. But Buatsi is special. This is the perfect stage for him to demonstrate that and I believe he will.
Prediction: “Buatsi”