- Joshua Buatsi weighed 174.9lbs and Willy Hutchinson 174.5lbs, both inside the 175lb light heavyweight limit, for Buatsi vs Hutchinson 2 at the AO Arena in Manchester tonight
- The vacant WBC light heavyweight title is on the line, with the fight live on DAZN
- My view: nothing on the scales changes my pick, Buatsi wins a tight, hard-fought decision
Both Men Make Weight In Manchester
Right then. The first box is ticked. Joshua Buatsi weighed in at 174.9lbs and Willy Hutchinson at 174.5lbs on Friday, both inside the 175lb light heavyweight limit. That means Buatsi vs Hutchinson 2 goes ahead tonight at the AO Arena in Manchester for the vacant WBC title, live on DAZN.
Let's not beat around the bush, that is exactly what you want. No drama on the scales, no argument about catchweights, and no excuses waiting in the wings for the loser. Two professionals, one title, and a rematch that was always going to be competitive.
What The Numbers Tell Us
A difference of 0.4lbs is nothing. Neither man has an edge from the scales, and both look to have done the job properly. Buatsi won the first fight by split decision, which tells you how close it was, and nothing about the weigh-in suggests this one will be any different.
Buatsi: The Pressure Of Being The Favourite
Buatsi is the more polished fighter and the one with the Olympic pedigree, but being the favourite in a rematch brings its own pressure. He has to prove the first win was no fluke and that he can handle Hutchinson's strength and aggression over 12 rounds.
Hutchinson: Nothing To Lose
Hutchinson comes in knowing he was close the first time. He is a big, strong, orthodox light heavyweight who will walk through shots, and he will fancy his chances of getting it right second time. Make no mistake, he is dangerous.
My Pick Stays The Same
I have already previewed Buatsi vs Hutchinson 2 and backed Buatsi, but not by much. Nothing on the scales has moved me. Buatsi's jab and footwork edge it again, in a proper fight that goes the distance. If you are splitting your night between Manchester and London, my guide to how to watch both cards has you covered.