Josh Taylor Returns: Great Expectations at Welterweight!

Josh Taylor Returns: Great Expectations at Welterweight!

Josh Taylor, the former undisputed super lightweight champion, makes his comeback after a break of over a year, fighting Ekow Essuman at the OVO Hydro in Glasgow, Scotland on May 24, 2025. This fight, contested at welterweight, marks Taylor's move to a new weight class and occupies a pivotal place in his career. After a difficult period marked by a controversial defeat to Jack Catterall and another to Teofimo Lopez, the 34-year-old is now hoping to regain his credibility and establish himself in the welterweight division. According to Ringside24, Taylor wants to return stronger than ever.

For Taylor, this fight not only marks the restart of his career, but also an important test of his abilities in the welterweight division. There are concerns about whether he can compete with the best fighters in this new class. However, Ekow Essuman, 36 years old, is not seen as an easy opponent. He has made a name for himself with victories over undefeated fighters such as Ben Vaughan and Owen Cooper and could significantly hinder Taylor's ambitions. Known as a defensive fighter with a steady pace, Essuman sees the opportunity to beat a big name as a springboard for international recognition.

Battle details and backgrounds

The fight will be titled “Land of the Brave” and will also be broadcast in the USA on DAZN. Taylor brings an impressive record of 19 wins, 13 by knockout, and 2 losses to the ring. His previous achievements include a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games and a gold medal in 2014. He became the IBF super lightweight world champion and unified the titles when he defeated Regis Prograis and Jose Ramirez. His most recent loss to Teofimo Lopez resulted in him losing his belts and taking an extended break, according to British Boxing News.

Ekow Essuman, on the other hand, has a record of 21 wins, 8 of which were by knockout, and 1 defeat and is currently the WBO European welterweight champion. His notable achievements include winning the British title and a successful defense against Chris Jenkins. However, he suffered his first defeat against Harry Scarff in November 2023, which could motivate him further.

Supported by a strong program

In addition to Taylor's return, the event will also feature other exciting fights including Nathaniel Collins vs. Lee McGregor for the WBC Silver Championship and numerous other exciting matchups. Tickets for this event have been available since March 7th, further increasing the anticipation among boxing fans. The questions on many fans' minds are whether Taylor can maintain his spot at welterweight and whether Essuman will take advantage of the opportunity to establish himself as a serious contender.

Boxing fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting how this story will unfold. The return of Josh Taylor could not only influence his own career, but also revitalize the welterweight division, where numerous talents are waiting for their chance to prove themselves. The fight promises not only sporting excitement, but also personal stories of struggle, resurrection and ambition.