Joshua Buatsi vs Willy Hutchinson Prediction (Light Heavyweight WBC Title World) Odds and Bets 07.11.2026

Buatsi enters the rematch with 20 professional victories and one defeat, including 13 wins by knockout. His only loss came against Callum Smith in February 2025, when he surrendered the WBO interim light-heavyweight title on points after a demanding 12-round contest. He returned in November 2025 with a majority-decision victory over Zach Parker in Manchester. However, the performance attracted criticism, with Buatsi struggling to close the distance against a mobile opponent.

His strengths remain clear. Buatsi applies constant pressure, works effectively behind his jab and targets the body whenever opponents allow him inside. Those qualities helped him defeat Hutchinson at Wembley, where he scored knockdowns in rounds six and nine. I’m expecting Buatsi to adopt a similar approach, using patient pressure rather than chasing an early stoppage.

Hutchinson arrives with a professional record of 20 wins and two defeats, including 14 victories inside the distance. The 28-year-old Scot has won both fights since losing to Buatsi. He stopped Mark Jeffers in the seventh round in October 2025 before producing an impressive unanimous-decision victory over Ezra Taylor in March 2026. Hutchinson controlled much of that ten-round contest, with the judges scoring it 99-91 and 98-92 twice in his favour.

His speed, movement and counterpunching were particularly effective against Taylor. However, Buatsi has already demonstrated how difficult he can make life for Hutchinson when he gets close enough to attack the body. The Scotsman’s challenge is to maintain his distance, avoid prolonged exchanges on the ropes and keep his output consistent throughout 12 rounds.

1. Buatsi’s Body Punching: Buatsi landed 150 body shots in their first encounter, compared with Hutchinson’s 18. That sustained pressure contributed to two knockdowns.
2. Hutchinson’s Technical Improvements: The Scotsman’s victory over Ezra Taylor demonstrated improved composure, footwork and counterpunching. He could make this a much closer tactical contest.
3. Recent Competitive Activity: Hutchinson last fought in March 2026, while Buatsi hasn’t competed since November 2025. That gives Hutchinson the advantage in recent ring activity.
4. Their Previous 12-Round Battle: Hutchinson recovered from two knockdowns and completed all 12 rounds at Wembley. Both fighters already understand the physical demands of this match-up.
5. The Method-of-Victory Market: The outright odds are exceptionally close, but their previous meeting and recent points victories make another decision an appealing possibility.