Joshua Buatsi Determined to Avoid Joe Joyce’s Career Setbacks

The current WBO interim light-heavyweight title holder, Joshua Buatsi, wants to emulate and avoid the pitfalls of Joe Joyce. Joyce, who had once held the WBO interim heavyweight title after a sensational victory over Joseph Parker in 2022, was subjected to back-to-back defeats against Zhilei Zhang and Derek Chisora, respectively. For the 31-year-old, unbeaten Buatsi, to emulate the same strategy would not be in his best interest as he aims at a full world title fight.

Looking at the Career of Joe Joyce

Joyce’s downfall has been extremely fast after beating Parker. He won the WBO interim heavyweight title but was knocked out by Zhang, and then there was the Chisora loss in July. Since Joyce clinched the interim title shot, many criticized his choice of opponent as they feared he was being reckless.

These fights resulted in dramatically affected his career. Therefore, for Buatsi, Joyce’s journey is a negative example. He further says that once an interim title is under a candidate’s belt, wise choices must be made. The risk of taking unnecessary fights could jeopardize his path to a world championship, something Joyce’s career illustrates all too well.

Joshua Buatsi’s Plan to Stay on Course

Buatsi proved himself in a nerve-wracking fight with Willy Hutchinson, successfully defending his interim light-heavyweight crown and extending his unbeaten record. After this win, he can afford no fancy detours. He wants to be more focused on getting a shot at a world title instead of endangering his unbeaten run by participating in fights that might slow his progress.

Buatsi wants to challenge Artur Beterbiev for the light-heavyweight title. However, there could be issues as Beterbiev could be preparing for a rematch against Dmitry Bivol next year. If that fight were to happen, Buatsi may have to look for other matches in the meantime.

Upcoming Battle That May Occur

While awaiting the rematch between Beterbiev and Bivol might deprive him of a world title shot, the fighter has two options for fights to stay on his upward trajectory. One fight would be a clash with Anthony Yarde. This would give Buatsi an appealing opponent as he awaits a crack at the undisputed champion Beterbiev. Another potential fight would be against Callum Smith. Smith, who was formerly a world champion.

Conclusion

Joshua Buatsi will ensure he does not experience what Joe Joyce went through. His strategy is clear: reminding him to be disciplined, not to take any extra chances, and to always look at the goal. From the title fight against Artur Beterbiev to a big fight with Anthony Yarde or Callum Smith, every decision from his corner will determine the next step in his boxing career. The most important thing is to continue winning and make it possible that when that time comes, to be fully prepared again for his world championship fight.