Fisher Embraces Fresh Start Under Zuffa Banner as He Targets Domestic Title Shot

After a five-year stint with Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, heavyweight Johnny Fisher has switched allegiances, signing with Dana White’s Zuffa Boxing in July. The 25-year-old was candid about the motivation behind the move, acknowledging the financial package was simply too substantial to decline.

“I got made a fantastic financial offer, which I would be lying if I said I could turn down,” Fisher said. “Our health isn’t guaranteed in this sport, let alone our financials.”

The partnership was formalized over a Chinese meal with Fisher’s father and the UFC president. “It was great to break bread — or prawn crackers — over a Chinese,” he added.

The overhaul extends beyond promotional backing. Fisher has parted ways with long-time trainer Mark Tibbs, linking up with Tony Sims in a bid to bring more structure to his preparation. He admitted his previous camps occasionally suffered from an element of “winging it.”

This time around, the work has been markedly more rigorous: roughly 160 rounds of sparring, altitude conditioning, and 6 a.m. hill sprints have underpinned the build-up to his next outing.

Despite the upgrades, Fisher remains grounded about his current standing in the division. “I’m not Usyk, I’m no AJ, I’m not Fury,” he said. “I’m not these top guys at the top of the division.”

He has identified Frazer Clarke and Solomon Dacres as potential domestic rivals and believes competing for the British title within 12 to 18 months is a realistic goal. Current British champion Richard Riakporhe has already welcomed a future clash, provided Fisher navigates his upcoming test against Harry Pirotton — a step up in class should that fight materialize.

“All I’ve got to do is win my next fight,” Fisher insisted. “That’s the only thing that matters, and then the picture becomes clearer. My aspiration is always to have a good time and have a good old swing at it.”

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