Joshua Buatsi vs Zach Parker: Preview & Betting Tips

The light-heavyweight scene delivers another all-domestic British showdown this weekend as Joshua Buatsi takes on Zach Parker in the main event at Manchester’s Co-op Live Arena.

Buatsi (19-1, 13 KO’s) returns to the ring for the first time since suffering a unanimous decision loss to Callum Smith back in February. That defeat halted Buatsi’s unbeaten run and raised questions about his ceiling at world level.

Parker (26-1, 18 KO’s), meanwhile, has quietly built momentum after his injury loss to John Ryder in 2022. That bout ended prematurely when Parker suffered a fractured hand, but since then, he’s put together a four-fight winning streak, rebuilding confidence and power along the way.

Tale of the Tape

Joshua Buatsi – Odds 1.17

Record: 19-1, 13 KO’s

Age: 32

Height: 6ft2

Reach: 74”

Weight: Light-heavyweight

Stance: Orthodox 

Zach Parker – Odds 5.00 

Record: 26-1, 18 KO’s

Age: 31

Height: 6ft1

Reach: 74”

Weight: Light-heavyweight 

Stance: Orthodox

Joshua Buatsi vs Zach Parker: Analysis

While Buatsi may be entering this bout off of a loss, the Olympic bronze medallist remains one of Britain’s most technically gifted light-heavyweights, and a victory over Parker would put him right back in contention for title opportunities in 2026.

Buatsi is the more polished technician. His jab, head movement, and shot selection reflect his strong amateur foundation. Expect him to keep the fight at mid-range, where his balance and timing can shine. However, Buatsi has at times been too measured, allowing opponents to steal rounds with aggression and volume.

Parker, by contrast, thrives on rhythm and pressure. He’s fluid when he finds his timing and can switch stances effectively, creating angles for big left hooks. To win here, he’ll need to make Buatsi uncomfortable and force exchanges, close the distance, and test that defensive discipline that looked weak against Callum Smith.

Buatsi vs Parker: Prediction & Betting Tips

Both men have the tools to win, but motivation and timing may be the difference. Buatsi’s loss to Smith might have been the wake-up call he needed and serve as a reminder to rediscover his sharpness and urgency. With a new promotional setup and renewed focus, he looks poised for a statement performance.

Parker is no easy out, and his self-belief could push Buatsi into uncomfortable territory early. However, Buatsi’s tighter defence, more accurate jab, and superior ring IQ should see him take control as the rounds progress.

Parker does have good punch resistance, and he’s capable of playing “spoiler”, but I thoroughly expect him to be on the losing side in this one given it’s Buatsi’s Queensberry debut.

My pick is Joshua Buatsi to win by decision or technical decision at odds of 2.88.