Eddie Hearn claims Joshua Buatsi is not yet ready for a world title shot – despite knocking out Daniel Blenda Dos Santos in four rounds.
Buatsi extended his perfect record to 14-0 by flattening Dos Santos in his first fight with new trainer Virgil Hunter to retain his WBA International light-heavyweight title.
The Olympic bronze medallist is targeting the WBA’s Super champion Dmitry Bivol, but Hearn claims he needs at least one more fight to prove he’s ready.
“I’m very mindful of the fact I don’t want to miss his peak moments to win a world title,” said the Matchroom supremo.
“He’s 28 now. He’s teamed up with Virgil Hunter, who will probably want three more fights with him before he fights for a world title. I would like one, but I will do what I’m told!
“I feel like if he fought Bivol now, who would you back? It’s one of those.
“I just think Buatsi is a real talent, but we need to get that opponent next time round who is between Dos Santos and Bivol and there are many levels between them.
“We’ve got to get someone who shows Virgil he’s ready for that test because you can’t beat Dos Santos and say ‘he’s ready for a world title’.
“He has the ability to win a world title, but he hasn’t had a win that will make you know for sure he’s ready.”
Buatsi floored the previously-unbeaten Dos Santos in the second round at Manchester Arena before finishing him with a devastating overhand right.
He was delighted with his performance in his first fight under Hunter and feels he can develop more under Amir Khan’s former cornerman.
“Virgil gave me the perfect instructions and I followed them,” said the Croydon fighter.
“I haven’t got here by being given it. The little that I’ve learnt, I’ve had to work hard for it.
“I thank God for everything that we’ve got, but I work hard for it.
“When I step in that ring it’s a dog mentality, this is a fight. I’m here to take everything.”
