This public response highlights the high standards established by Zuffa when they brought Fisher on board last month. Fans had hoped for a challenger who could truly push him after his two grueling encounters with David Allen. However, Pirotton comes into the matchup with very little profile and a relatively unremarkable record.
The majority of Pirotton’s bouts have occurred in Belgium, alongside a short spell competing in the United States. Last year, he suffered a six-round points loss to Piotr Lacz and was subsequently eliminated from the WBC Grand Prix following a decision defeat to Kevin Ramirez.
Given these outcomes, followers of the sport are skeptical about placing Fisher’s inaugural promotional fight at the top of the card. While Zuffa has secured a relatively easy return for him, promoting this matchup as the main event naturally draws disapproval.
A cautious reconstruction of his career is vital following his fifth-round stoppage loss to Allen at the Copper Box in May 2025. Their first meeting ended in a controversial split-decision victory for Fisher, even though Allen connected with the more precise and powerful shots.
He returned to the ring in December, securing a fourth-round technical knockout against Ivan Balaz. Balaz put up very little fight, meaning Pirotton represents the second highly managed opponent chosen for the Romford-based heavyweight since his stoppage loss.
The two clashes with Allen highlighted clear vulnerabilities in his defense that require adjustment before any dreams of a world championship can be seriously considered. Fisher proved simple to target, struggled when backed up, and was unable to defend himself effectively after being stunned.
The broader issue is how many of these developmental matchups Zuffa is willing to fund before insisting on higher-caliber rivals. Fisher’s stoppage defeat last year demonstrated that he is still far from ready to face top-15 heavyweight competitors. While Michael Pirotton allows him space to grow, Zuffa will ultimately expect greater returns from one of their most heavily marketed UK acquisitions.
Zuffa’s defense of the fight could center on the fact that Pirotton has never been knocked down. At 6-foot-5 with an 82-inch reach, the Belgian fighter offers Fisher a rangy target who could push him through some valuable rounds. Nevertheless, his resilience by itself is scarcely enough to merit top billing on the night.
Speaking with Sky Sports, the 27-year-old fighter stood up for the choice of opponent:
“This is a massive opportunity for Michael Pirotton, but it is just as crucial for me because a victory allows me to transition to more significant and prominent fights. I have major goals in boxing.”
This bout marks the beginning of Fisher’s promotional deal with Zuffa, taking place at the very venue where Allen stopped him. The skepticism expressed on social media is entirely understandable. Zuffa secured one of the UK’s most widely supported heavyweights, only to match him against Michael Pirotton for his debut headline appearance.
