Craig Richards and Joshua Buatsi in talks for South London light-heavyweight clash

Craig “Spider” Richards is ready for an all-South London light-heavyweight showdown against Joshua Buatsi.

Matchroom Boxing boss Eddie Hearn revealed recently that talks were ongoing for the pair to step in the ring.

Richards, from Crystal Palace, lost a unanimous decision to the WBA ‘Super’ world champion Dmitry Bivol in May.

The 31-year-old claimed that governing body’s International title five months later when he stopped Marek Matyja in six rounds.

Croydon’s Buatsi has a perfect 15-0 ledger but the 2016 Olympic bronze medallist has not progressed his career as quickly as expected.

He had previously held the WBA belt now in Richards’ possession – making multiple defences along with claiming the British strap early in 2019.

Buatsi had been due to face Maxim Vlasov in November but pulled out after suffering a hand injury in training.

“I’ve spoken to my manager who said it was very close to being done,” Richards (17-2-1) told Boxing Social. “They are trying to cross the t’s and dot the i’s.

“I heard that negotiations were going well. I’m just in the gym so that when I get the green light I’m ready to go. Whenever that is, it’s all good to me. I feel [a win over Buatsi] it puts me on the global scene. I think I can push on and get that world title shot again.

“It’s a good time for me and him to cross paths – we’re both knocking on the door for a world title. The winner, it’s inevitable, goes on to get a world title shot.

“It’s an important fight for both of us and I’m sure we will both bring our A-game.”

PICTURE: MARK ROBINSON/MATCHROOM BOXING