How Joshua Buatsi Kept His Boxing Secret From Strict Parents
Joshua Buatsi kept his early boxing career a secret from his strict parents after moving from Ghana to South London at the age of nine. By the time he reached 15 years old, he began following his friends to the local boxing gym, knowing full well that his family strongly disapproved of the sport.
The clandestine training sessions continued for years until Buatsi won the ABA national amateur championship in 2014. His father finally discovered the truth when he spotted the family surname in a local newspaper report detailing the tournament results.
The Moment the Local Newspaper Blew His Cover
Buatsi understood that if he was going to defy his parents and enter the ring, he needed to succeed immediately to soften the eventual blow. He explained that he had to be good at the sport because his parents told him not to fight, so he promised himself he would win if he took the risk.
His father read the publication and noticed the unique spelling of their family name, asking the young fighter directly if he was participating in the sport. Buatsi admitted to the truth, though the fact that he was already a national champion helped ease the initial tension.
Before his cover was blown, Buatsi had to resort to hiding his equipment inside a bag he claimed was full of football gear. When his father demanded to inspect the contents of the bag, Buatsi was caught red-handed with his boxing gloves, hand wraps, and gumshield.
Balancing Higher Education and Professional Ambitions
Buatsi pursued his education alongside his athletic goals, ultimately earning a bachelor's degree in Management with Sports Science. This academic focus was particularly important to him because of cultural attitudes in Ghana, where some people held the misconception that fighting was only for individuals who struggled academically.
By staying in school, he wanted to prove that athletes could pursue higher education while competing at a high level. This dedication to his studies even led him to turn down a professional contract offer from Floyd Mayweather, who had flown to Brazil to watch Buatsi win a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympic Games.
Path to the World Title and Upcoming Rematch
Ten years after his success at the Olympic Games, Buatsi prepares to challenge for his first major world title in the professional ranks. The 33-year-old fighter takes on 28-year-old Willy Hutchinson for the vacant WBC title on Saturday in Manchester.
The pair previously met in September 2024, where Buatsi secured a victory over Hutchinson. Their upcoming rematch carries the famous green and gold belt, offering Buatsi a chance to claim his first world championship.
Sharing Success With the Community
Buatsi views his achievements as something meant to be shared with his supporters rather than kept strictly to himself. When he won his Olympic bronze medal, he brought it back to his hometown so local residents could see it and take photographs with it.
He intends to bring the world title belt back for a similar community celebration following his fight. Buatsi noted that boxing has never been something where he wants to be the sole beneficiary, encouraging fans to hold and interact with his accolades.
