Joshua Buatsi is eager for a rematch with Callum Smith after their dramatic first encounter, which many have already hailed as one of the year’s most exciting light-heavyweight bouts. The two fighters met in Riyadh this February in a punishing 12-round contest that ended with Smith winning by unanimous decision to claim the WBO Interim light-heavyweight title, handing Buatsi his first professional defeat.
Reflecting on the loss, Buatsi admitted the sting of defeat still lingers. “It hurt more that I didn’t win,” he revealed. “It was a horrible feeling. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback about what a great fight it was, but when it’s close and competitive, you wish you had come out on top.”
Buatsi made it clear that he would have jumped at the chance for an immediate rematch. “If they had asked me right away, I would have said yes. I lost my titles, so of course I would have taken it. If it happens later down the line, I’ll take it then too,” he said.
Before facing Smith again, Buatsi is focusing on rebuilding and will take on Zach Parker on November 1. Parker is a former amateur opponent whom Buatsi defeated more than a decade ago during the national championships, but he remains a formidable challenge. “I’m not the same fighter, and I’m sure Parker isn’t either. He’s no walk in the park. My goal is to work hard and put on a show for the fans,” Buatsi explained.
A win over Parker could set up further high-profile matchups, including a potential clash with London rival Anthony Yarde. “After Parker, throw all the names at me and I’ll say yes to all of them. I want to get back into these big fights,” Buatsi said, underlining his ambition to reclaim his place among the division’s elite.
The first fight with Smith is still remembered as a standout performance from both fighters, showcasing resilience, skill, and heart. For Buatsi, avenging the defeat and climbing back toward the top of the light-heavyweight rankings is now the immediate goal, with Parker and a potential Smith rematch acting as key steps on that path.
