WHY DID BUATSI LEAVE MATCHROOM?

Joshua Buatsi, the Ghanaian-British boxer, is a former WBA International light heavyweight champion. He left Matchroom Boxing in October 2022, his long-time promotional company and home to some of the biggest names in boxing. Buatsi's departure from Matchroom has naturally left many wondering why he decided to leave. This article aims to unpack the reasons behind his split from Matchroom and provide insights into what the future holds for this talented fighter.

1. Clash With Promoter:

A key factor in Buatsi's decision to leave Matchroom was his apparent clash with promoter Eddie Hearn. Buatsi's frustrations came to a head after his fight with Craig Richards in May 2022. The split decision loss to Richards, which many believed Buatsi won, fueled his dissatisfaction with Matchroom's handling of his career. He felt that the company was not fully behind him and was not providing him with the opportunities he deserved. The relationship between Buatsi and Hearn had reportedly deteriorated over time, with the boxer feeling undervalued and frustrated.

2. Lack of High-Profile Fights:

Buatsi's camp has expressed concerns over the lack of high-profile fights offered to him by Matchroom. Despite his impressive record and mandatory status, he was not being given the opportunities to challenge for world titles or face top-level competition. This lack of progression was a significant factor in Buatsi's decision to leave Matchroom, as he felt that he needed a new promotional team to take his career to the next level.

3. Greater Control Over Career:

By leaving Matchroom, Buatsi is taking control of his own career. He now has the freedom to make decisions about his fights, opponents, and promotional activities without the influence of a promoter. This independence allows him to chart his own course and potentially seek out more lucrative opportunities. Buatsi believes that this move will empower him to make the best decisions for his career and ultimately achieve his goals.

4. Pursuit of New Challenges:

The decision to leave Matchroom also represents Buatsi's desire for new challenges. After spending several years with the same promoter, he may have felt the need for a change of scenery and a fresh start. A new environment can often reinvigorate a fighter's motivation and provide a renewed sense of purpose. Buatsi may believe that leaving Matchroom will allow him to explore new avenues and push himself to even greater heights.

5. Potential New Promotional Opportunities:

Buatsi's departure from Matchroom has opened up the possibility of new promotional opportunities. Several other promotional companies have expressed interest in working with him, seeing his potential as a future world champion. Buatsi and his team will have the chance to evaluate these offers and choose the one that best aligns with their goals and ambitions.

Conclusion:

Joshua Buatsi's decision to leave Matchroom Boxing was a significant development in the boxing world. A combination of factors, including a clash with promoter Eddie Hearn, lack of high-profile fights, the pursuit of greater control over his career, desire for new challenges, and potential new promotional opportunities, contributed to his departure. While it is uncertain what the future holds for Buatsi, his talent and determination suggest that he has the potential to achieve great things in the boxing world.

FAQs:

1. Did Joshua Buatsi ever win a world title?
Answer: No, Joshua Buatsi has not won a world title yet. He held the WBA International light heavyweight title but has not had the opportunity to challenge for a world championship.

2. Who is Joshua Buatsi's new promoter?
Answer: Joshua Buatsi has not yet announced his new promoter. He is currently a free agent and is exploring various promotional opportunities.

3. Why was Joshua Buatsi unhappy with Matchroom Boxing?
Answer: Buatsi was reportedly unhappy with Matchroom Boxing due to a clash with promoter Eddie Hearn, lack of high-profile fights, and a desire for greater control over his career.

4. What are Joshua Buatsi's future plans?
Answer: Buatsi's future plans are uncertain at the moment. He is likely to assess his options and choose a new promoter who can provide him with the opportunities and support he needs to achieve his goals.

5. Who is Joshua Buatsi's biggest rival?
Answer: Joshua Buatsi's biggest rival is considered to be Craig Richards, whom he fought in a controversial split decision loss in May 2022.