Fight Details
Matchup: Josh Taylor (19-2-0, 13 KOs) vs. Ekow Essuman (21-1-0, 8 KOs)
Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
Venue: OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland
Division: Welterweight (147 lbs)
Rounds: 12
Broadcast: DAZN
Fighter Profiles & Recent Form
Josh Taylor
Age: 34
Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
Stance: Southpaw
Professional Rounds: 147
Ranking: WBO #5, WBA #7
Taylor, the former undisputed junior welterweight champion, is making his welterweight debut after suffering back-to-back losses to Teofimo Lopez and Jack Catterall. Once regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters, Taylor’s career has hit a rough patch, and this fight is seen as a crucial moment for his resurgence.
Taylor’s aggressive style, sharp counterpunching, and ability to control distance have made him a formidable opponent. However, questions remain about whether he can carry his power up to 147 lbs and whether his recent inactivity will affect his performance.
Ekow Essuman
Age: 36
Height: 5’8″ (173 cm)
Stance: Orthodox
Professional Rounds: 159
Ranking: WBO #4, WBA #14
Essuman is a solid domestic-level welterweight, known for his durability and pressure fighting. He has won two of his last three fights, including a majority decision victory over Ben Vaughan and a stoppage win against Owen Cooper. His only loss came against Harry Scarff in 2023, but he has since bounced back.
Essuman’s high work rate and ability to absorb punishment make him a dangerous opponent, especially against a fighter like Taylor who is adjusting to a new weight class.
Key Matchups & Fight Analysis
Taylor’s Speed vs. Essuman’s Pressure
Taylor is the faster, more technical fighter, while Essuman relies on constant forward movement and volume punching. If Taylor can maintain distance and use his sharp counters, he could control the fight.
Power & Physicality
Essuman has fought at welterweight his entire career, while Taylor is moving up from 140 lbs. If Essuman can bully Taylor on the inside, he could wear him down over 12 rounds.
Home Advantage
Taylor will be fighting in Glasgow, Scotland, where he has a strong fan base. The crowd could give him an extra boost, especially in the later rounds.
FIGHT ODDS
Josh Taylor – 300
Ekow Essuman + 225
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 23, 2025
