Joshua Buatsi set to make title defence against Quinlan at The O2
Joshua Buatsi will defend his WBA international light-heavyweight title against Australia’s Renold Quinlan at The O2 in London on December 22.
Croydon’s Buatsi won the title in spectacular fashion when he destroyed Andrejs Pokumeiko inside one round at the same venue in July.
The South Londoner then blitzed Frenchman Tony Averlant in the opening round at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle in September.
Buatsi, 25, is hoping that former IBO super-middleweight champion Quinlan will take him rounds.
Quinlan, 29, was stopped in 10 rounds by Chris Eubank Junior in February 2017. He was also down twice in the fifth round against Damien Hooper beofre being halted in the ninth round in Brisbane.
“Renold Quinlan is a good solid fighter,” said Buatsi. “I’m hoping that he will give me the rounds that I need because my last two fights have gone early.
“He’s a very tough man and a proud Australian, he’ll be coming to fight. This isn’t about the title, it’s about getting the experience under my belt and pushing on.”
“I’ve seen bits of Buatsi and he’s nothing special,” said Quinlan. “He hasn’t fought anyone like me yet and I can’t wait to give him a great fight. I’m delighted to be returning to the UK on such a big card and I’ll be putting on a great performance for all my UK fans.”
The main event sees Brixton’s Dillian Whyte rematch against Dereck Chisora. The pair engaged in a gruelling war in December 2016 which saw Whyte win a narrow decision.
Another victory for the South London is likely to set up a second clash with Anthony Joshua next year.
*****
The 24-year-old suffered his first defeat in 21 bouts. The scorecards were 116-112 (twice) and 115-113 at Madison Square Garden Theater.
Everyone at the South London Press thanks you for your continued support.
Former Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has encouraged everyone in the country who can afford to do so to buy a newspaper, and told the Downing Street press briefing:
“A FREE COUNTRY NEEDS A FREE PRESS, AND THE NEWSPAPERS OF OUR COUNTRY ARE UNDER SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL PRESSURE”
If you can afford to do so, we would be so grateful if you can make a donation which will allow us to continue to bring stories to you, both in print and online. Or please make cheques payable to “MSI Media Limited” and send by post to South London Press, Unit 112, 160 Bromley Road, Catford, London SE6 2NZ
