Willy Hutchinson Outpoints Joshua Buatsi to Claim WBC World Title

Willy Hutchinson (21-2, 14 KOs) defeated Joshua Buatsi via unanimous decision to win the vacant WBC world light heavyweight title in Manchester.

Willy Hutchinson secured the vacant WBC world light heavyweight title on Saturday at the AO Arena in Manchester, England, defeating Joshua Buatsi via unanimous decision. Judges scored the bout 117-112, 115-113, and 115-113 in favor of the 28-year-old Scotsman. Hutchinson (21-2, 14 KOs) claimed the belt recently vacated by David Benavidez, becoming Scotland's first men's world boxing champion in three years.

Hutchinson established control early behind a sharp jab in Round 2 and elusive footwork during Round 3. Buatsi (20-2, 13 KOs), who was previously victorious against Hutchinson in September 2024, struggled with a slow start and lacked urgency throughout the first half of the contest. Although Buatsi landed a significant body shot in the eighth round and increased his intensity by Round 11, he was unable to overcome Hutchinson's early lead.

Following the result, Anthony Yarde entered the ring to congratulate the new champion. Hutchinson expressed immediate interest in a bout with Yarde for his first title defense.

On the undercard, English welterweight Jack Rafferty improved to 28-0-1 with a unanimous points win over Hovhannes Martirosyan. Rafferty earned scores of 114-113, 116-111, and 116-111 to secure the fringe IBO belt after recording a knockdown in the final round.