The winner of Buatsi-Azeez will be in line for a shot at WBA champion Dmitry Bivol but may be made to wait, with the Russian likely to face compatriot Artur Beterbiev in an undisputed contest this summer.

Buatsi was once considered Britain’s brightest prospect but his career has somewhat stagnated in recent years. The 30-year-old is unbeaten in 17 fights but has competed just once in the past 20 months.

His responses on Thursday were at times long-winded, prompting Azeez at one point to comment: “Just say yes or no”.

In his first appearance under the Boxxer promotional banner, Buatsi underwhelmed in a 10-round points win over Pawel Stepien in May.

In contrast to Buatsi’s transition from Olympics to the pro game, Azeez has come through small hall shows and worked his way up the rankings. He has won Southern Area, English, British, Commonwealth and European titles along the way.

“I’m not supposed to be here. He has more to lose because the expectation is on him,” Azeez said.

“But the pressure I put on myself, what I expect from myself, I have a lot to lose too.”

Nelson ended the Gloves are Off show by asking if the two fighters would shake hands.

Buatsi refused, saying: “After the fight.”