Ben Whittaker: The Bright Future of British Boxing
Ben Whittaker is excited about what the future holds for him in the boxing world. Although it may sound strange, his next fight against Benjamin Gavazi (19-1, 13 KOs) in Birmingham this Saturday marks a turning point in his career. The anticipation is palpable in his eyes as he speaks with a small group of journalists before his return to the ring. Whittaker (9-0-1, 6 KOs) is a talented boxer, skillful, articulate, and sometimes controversial. His flashy style in the ring may generate diverse reactions, but it certainly attracts attention. Whittaker has accepted that he can’t please everyone, especially in boxing, and prefers to focus on his own path. Olympic silver medalist and with a natural gift for spectacle, it’s no surprise that Eddie Hearn showed interest in signing Whittaker after the Tokyo Games. Finally, after Boxxer and Sky Sports went their separate ways, Hearn achieved his goal, and Whittaker signed a contract with Matchroom. Now, with the promotions underway, it’s time to reap victories. “Activity,” Whittaker says when asked about what his new promoter offers him. “I can have 3-4 fights next year, whereas, with my previous promoter, they only had four fights available. The position I’m in now is not what I need.” Ben Whittaker Hearn has hinted at the possibility of bringing Whittaker to the United States early next year, a scenario that could be ideal for his flashy style. Although Whittaker enjoys fighting at home and values the UK fans, his aspirations go further. Whittaker has a global vision.Whittaker seeks to move forward after a turbulent year.“I get a lot of criticism here in the UK, but I love it. I have a good fanbase in the United States… Interestingly, one of my biggest followers is in Japan and Brazil. Eddie can take me to those unusual places you could never go.”
Ben Whittaker
Saturday will be their second fight together, and both hope their relationship will bring them titles. Despite not being older, Whittaker knows he must act soon if he wants to aim for titles in the light heavyweight division, a division full of opportunities. Whether it’s a new beginning or not, Whittaker promises to be a must-see spectacle, whether you like it or not.“No one can underestimate what this man has gone through since the first fight”, Lee said. “Mentally, the barrage of insults, the fact that he’s still here, not many could withstand what he’s been through. This is a champion. I’m not going to spend time with someone who isn’t worthy of my time. This guy is the best person you’ll spend time with.”
Andy Lee
