Joshua Buatsi Links Up With Virgil Hunter; Looks Set For May Return

Joshua Buatsi has linked up with a new trainer ahead of his proposed ring return.

The undefeated Olympic bronze medallist, who has raced to 13-0 in the light-heavyweight division since turning professional, is set to step between the ropes again in a couple of months’ time.

Buatsi, 27, has been earmarked to headline a show promoted by Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing on May 15, exclusively live on Sky Sports and DAZN, at a venue to be confirmed in due course.

And should that suggestion become fact, Buatsi will box with a new face in the corner for the first time after teaming up with Virgil Hunter.

Hunter will be familiar to British boxing fans having overseen parts of the career of Amir Khan while also guiding Andre Ward to world titles in two different weight divisions.

“It’s mainly the style I like. Each of his fighters translate to it differently,” Buatsi said in an interview with Sky Sports regarding his new mentor. “Ward got to the highest level and achieved everything and is someone who operated at my weight.”

Buatsi initially met Hunter in New York, at the first fight between Anthony Joshua and Andy Ruiz Jr. back in 2019, and describes him as very calm, strategic, very positive and optimistic.

“If I don’t get something right away, it’s not the end of the world,” he added. “He has the right mindset. This addition to the team will 100 per cent bring the best out of me.”

Further details regarding the ring return of Buatsi in what will be his first fight under the tutelage of Hunter will be revealed soon.