Benavidez, Hutchinson, Parker: Who could Joshua Buatsi face next after controversial victory?

The Rio 2016 medalist entered the weekend knowing a second professional loss after defeat to Callum Smith could spell the end of his light-heavyweight world title ambitions.

Instead, he now nominally sits in prime position to challenge the winner of David Benavidez and Anthony Yarde's WBC strap fight later this month, yet still faces some questions.

But just who could he face next on the whole? Ahead of what the star hopes to be a career-defining 2026, DAZN News profiles three likely options for 'Just Business' to deal with.

David Benavidez

The obvious carrot for Buatsi is a shot at the world title he hs craved for so long - and with his victory here, he now steps into prime position to challenge Benavidez for his crown.

Of course, the American could well come up short against Yarde in a major test of his credentials, and if he was to do so, a likely rematch could further gum up the pecking order.

But if he wins, Benavidez will find himself with two options - the chance to pursue Dmitry Bivol for a likely undisputed bout, or a bout with a top-rated challenger chasing his strap.

Buatsi fits the bill, and for many, his shoot-out with Parker was billed as a likely road to a clash. But such a fight may now depend on the fallout to his own win as much as others.

Willy Hutchinson

If no title shot appears, then Buatsi is likely to need another major scalp to reinforce his credentials - and few fights may come as anticipated as this rematch with the Scotsman.

Hutchinson was in attendance to see his former opponent take victory on the cards, but had few kind words to say when interviewed, as he sought to face the winner of the bout.

With Buatsi triumphant, that places him squarely in 'Braveheart's crosshairs as he bids to put his own title ambitions back on top following teir bout at Wembley Stadium last year.

A split-decision loss for Hutchinson checked his momentum, but the star will be confident he can make amends, while his rival may not be able to resist the pull of a second dance.

Zach Parker

A busy week will be in store for the Derbyshire fighter and his team following a decision that left them furious and distraught - and the end result could lead to a major rematch.

Though there was no controversial conclusion to force another fight as the obvious next move, the outrage from both the star and the crowd spoke volumes to the end result.

Parker outlanded his foe throughout the contest, exposing the latter's rhythms and weaknesses, and will surely push for a second clash to settle matters in decisively fashion.

Buatsi will likely have no interest in rolling it back - but ultimately, if his title shot is delayed, he may need to prove he was more than fortunate to silence critics and detractors.

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