Friday 1 September 2017 23:40, UK
Joshua Buatsi earned a fifth-round stoppage win over Baptiste Castegnaro at London's York Hall to make it two wins inside the distance from as many fights.
It was only the second outing in the paid ranks for the 24-year-old light-heavyweight, who after claiming bronze at last summer's Rio Olympics, gave another glimpse of his undoubted power and talent.
Croydon's Buatsi used the opening round to work out his French opponent who was very much making it his goal to smother the work of Buatsi and make it a messy affair.
In the first minute of the second round, Buatsi started to find his range and landed a clever variety of shows that left Castegnaro crouching in the corner.
Despite his inexperience, the unbeaten Londoner showed no signs of being overwhelmed by the fiery York Hall arena and went about his business with composure and authority.
Castegnaro was proving a tough, awkward opponent and he continued to try to hold and frustrate and even landed some clubbing shots for himself as the contest entered a third stanza.
A left hook from Buatsi then landed high on the temple and the Frenchman's legs quickly stiffened.
Sensing victory, the Rio Olympian went on the hunt but Castegnaro was not willing to give in, despite being in complete survival mode.
The finish finally came in the fifth round after Buatsi was totally overpowering his game opponent and the referee had rightfully seen enough once Castegnaro fell to his knees following a series of jabs.
Buatsi will next fight on October 7 on the undercard of Anthony Crolla taking on Ricky Burns in Manchester.
Speaking to Sky Sports afterwards, he said: "I don't know if that was enjoyable but I'm glad I got the rounds in. I came out safely and I hope my opponent has as well.
"Castegnaro was tough, we are all fighters and are tough, we have a gladiator spirit.
"I do all the rounds in the gym and it's good to get it in a real fight. For my second fight, it was alright.
"It's a fantastic opportunity to headline here, I'm still learning, everyone will see me improve constantly.
"This season I aim to be out early in October and then get on the Anthony Joshua undercard afterwards."
