Willy Hutchinson: After Winning The WBC Light Heavyweight Title, Who’s Next?

What is next for Willy Hutchinson after his win on Saturday at Manchester Arena in Manchester, England?

Hutchinson (21-2, 14 KOs) became the WBC light heavyweight champion after avenging his loss to Buatsi, with the vacant WBC light heavyweight title on the line. Even more interesting is the light heavyweight division, a top-heavy division, that might be reinventing itself. Dmitry Bivol returns next month but will likely target the biggest names in the division; Artur Beterbiev is in his 40s, and it is unclear whether he will return. Then you have David Benavidez, who has officially moved up to cruiserweight. The win could serve as a spiritual succession, marking the division’s move from the previous era to the next.

So who could Hutchinson face next?

Anthony Yarde

Yarde sat ringside and probably wasn’t there just as a fan. I would be shocked if anyone but Yarde got the fight next.

Ben Whittaker

Whittaker is a British Olympian who, at times, has looked vulnerable but is flashy and fun. Hutchinson has grit and toughness, and a bout could answer: “How good” Whittaker is, especially after Whittaker limped to the finish line against Conor Wallace, appearing hurt in the final rounds.

Imam Khataev

Another 2020 Olympian, Khataev, has moved quickly as a pro. One of the most exciting amateurs of recent memory, Khataev has had an alright development, with a close fight against David Morrell that didn’t go his way and a wild fight in which he was dropped by Mickael Diallo. It is also an interesting stylistic clash.

Najee Lopez

One of the best American prospects, Lopez is due for a big fight. He is ranked in the top 10 by the WBC. Lopez is a fan favorite who has not been babied in his development. He has also been in a couple of “Fight of the Year” fights, including one in February against Manuel Gallegos.

Radivoje Kalajdzic 

Kalajdzic is on a great run in Zuffa Boxing, with some big wins over Oleksandr Gvozdyk and Craig Richards. Matching him with Buatsi is a well-earned fight and a chance for Kalajdzic to try to win a world title, which looked to be a lost hope when the decade started.

Lucas Ketelle

Lucas Ketelle is a boxing writer and podcaster who has appeared on various platforms throughout his career.

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