Johnny Fisher returns to Copper Box for Zuffa debut as he aims to rebuild after Allen defeat
Johnny Fisher returns to the Copper Box Arena on Saturday to headline a 10-round fight against Michael Pirotton in his promotional debut for Dana White's Zuffa Boxing as he seeks to rebuild from his first pro loss.
Johnny Fisher will step back into the Copper Box Arena on Saturday night to headline a 10-round heavyweight contest against Belgium's Michael Pirotton. Fisher, whose professional record stands at 14 wins (12 by knockout) and one loss, makes his promotional debut for Dana White's Zuffa Boxing after a run of performances that have prompted renewed scrutiny of his place in the division. The East London show will be Fisher's first outing since he was stopped by Dave Allen and follows a period of change in his camp and management.
Fisher to headline Copper Box 10-rounder against Michael Pirotton
The bout sees Fisher face 30-year-old Michael Pirotton, who has 12 professional wins—six by stoppage—and two defeats. The fight is scheduled for 10 rounds at heavyweight and will mark Fisher's first fight promoted by Zuffa Boxing. The Copper Box Arena has been a familiar setting for Fisher's ring walks and vocal support; this weekend's card gives him an immediate chance to steady his campaign after recent setbacks.
From 13-0 run to questions after defeat to Dave Allen
Fisher rose quickly with a largely ticket-selling profile, winning his first 13 professional fights. He built his early career on only a handful of amateur bouts and a background in university rugby. That progress hit turbulence in meetings with Dave Allen: a controversial December 2024 split decision was followed five months later by a fifth-round stoppage defeat. Fisher's comeback against Ivan Balaz ended in a fourth-round stoppage win, but the performance did little to silence critics questioning his credentials at the higher end of the domestic heavyweight scene.
Bosh Army and crossover appeal — Fisher's off-ring profile
Fisher's appeal extends beyond boxing. Alongside his father, 'Big John', his viral Chinese takeaway reviews, Essex humour, and the 'Bosh' catchphrase have created a substantial social-media following and a travelling 'Bosh Army' of supporters. That profile has invited both loyalty and extra scrutiny: Fisher acknowledges a vocal fanbase but also says the attention can turn negative when results go against him. He rejects the suggestion he belongs to an 'influencer' boxing sphere and stresses he is a professional boxer first.
Signs with Zuffa, switches trainer and steps up preparation
After five years with Eddie Hearn's Matchroom, Fisher signed with Zuffa Boxing in July. He said the contract was 'a fantastic financial offer' he could not turn down. Fisher has also changed his long-time trainer, moving from Mark Tibbs to Tony Sims, and describes this training camp as more structured: about 160 rounds of sparring, plus altitude work and 6am hill sprints. He recalls meeting Dana White for the first time over a Chinese meal with his father.
Short-term focus on Pirotton, longer-term British title hopes
Fisher is measured about his place in the world heavyweight pecking order, saying he is 'not Usyk, ... not AJ, ... not Fury' and listing Frazer Clarke and Solomon Dacres as domestic names he could face. He has set the target of contesting for the British title within 12 to 18 months, a plan Fisher calls 'amazing' if achieved. Current British champion Richard Riakporhe has publicly welcomed the prospect of meeting Fisher should he get past Pirotton, but Fisher insists his immediate priority is to win his next fight and let the picture become clearer thereafter.