LIGHT-heavyweight contender Willy Hutchinson will have a new trainer in his corner for his next fight. The 26-year-old announced on social media that Shane McGuigan will now guide his career.
Hutchinson, with a record of 18-2 (13 KOs), was previously trained by Mirko Wolf but has since turned to one of the world’s top coaches. The Scotsman joins an impressive stable that includes Adam Azim, Caroline Dubois, Chris Billam-Smith, and Ellie Scotney.
“This is going to be special,” Hutchinson posted on Instagram. “I’m now being trained by Shane McGuigan. I’ll be having fight news coming end of this week. Time to go get these world titles.” He added via his Instagram stories, “Buckle up, this is going to be a frightening combination.”
Despite his enormous potential, the Scottish boxer faced periods of inactivity in a career that once promised great things. That narrative shifted in June 2024 when Hutchinson bolstered his reputation by defeating Craig Richards. His performance that night in Riyadh showcased why so many, including his promoter Frank Warren, see a bright future for him. Ironically, Shane McGuigan was in the opposite corner that evening, coaching Richards, who ultimately lost on points to Hutchinson.
Eager to stay active, Hutchinson returned to the ring just three months later, facing Joshua Buatsi at Wembley Stadium on the Daniel Dubois-Anthony Joshua undercard. After a tense buildup, Buatsi proved his superiority, dropping Hutchinson twice en route to a split decision victory. Many onlookers felt Buatsi’s win was more decisive than the scorecards suggested. With that victory, Buatsi retained his WBO Interim light-heavyweight title.
Hutchinson then lined up a bout against Zach Parker, set for February 8. Unfortunately, the anticipated fight was cancelled during fight week after Hutchinson dislocated his left shoulder in sparring.
In the latest world rankings, Hutchinson stands at No. 10 with the WBO and No. 7 with the WBC.
