Ben Whittaker, with his characteristic style, appeared in the ring accompanied by the rapper Dizzee Rascal in Birmingham. The public’s reaction was mixed, but the city, known for its industrial history and the series “Peaky Blinders”, will have to get used to having a striking and bold star in its territory. Whittaker (10-0-1, 7 KOs) is aware that not everyone appreciates him, even his promoter, Eddie Hearn, admitted that he wasn’t sure about liking him at first. However, what is undeniable is his shocking knockout over Benjamin Gavazi. Boxing fans are demanding. Boxers must prove everything: if they talk a lot, they must back it up with actions; if they know how to fight but lack personality, they must develop it. Whittaker possesses both qualities in abundance, and the right hand he threw against Gavazi proved that he can hit as well as he talks. Although the opponents will be tougher, he has already participated in 11 fights, and Hearn is clear about where he wants to take him. The destination is the United States, that promised land for many British boxers. Whittaker, although he values his British fans and fighting at home, is tailor-made for America, where showmen are celebrated. The confirmation that Hearn had signed a true star came from his own daughter.
The challenge for the promoter is to find opponents tough enough without rushing his progress. The United States awaits him.“Did you hire Ben Whittaker? He’s so cool… He’s incredible!”
Eddie Hearn’s daughter
“When you want to build a star like me, you must take your time”
Ben Whittaker
His post-fight statements were a mix of knowing there’s work to be done, but with his usual arrogance. As he said in the ring: “Damn, I looked good.”
