The growing list of fighters who have boxed in Saudi Arabia may soon include BEN WHITTAKER.
It is believed that Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia, is a supporter of the British light-heavyweight boxer Whittaker. Boxxer, who currently represents Whittaker, has not been part of the boxing surge in the Middle East, where renowned boxers like Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder have recently competed.
On June 15, Whittaker will be making a comeback to the boxing ring, facing off against Nigerian boxer Ezra Arenyeka. The thrilling 10-round match will be held outdoors at Selhurst Park, the renowned home stadium of Crystal Palace FC. This exciting event will also feature the highly anticipated WBO cruiserweight title fight between Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe.
At yesterday’s press conference, Boxing News asked Whittaker if we might see him fight in Saudi Arabia one day.
“100 per cent,” he enthused.
“I believe that’s the direction big-time boxing is heading towards. And when talking about big-time boxing, my name must be mentioned. Even though I’m only seven fights in, I bring a great deal of excitement and showmanship. It’s what people crave, especially in Saudi Arabia. This is something we can expect in the near future, but for now, I need to concentrate on what lies ahead.”
The upcoming challenge for Whittaker is against a fellow undefeated fighter in the 175lb category. This fighter possesses a loud, brash, and confident demeanor, always being in your face. During a press conference for Whittaker’s previous fight against Leon Willings, Arenyeka disrupted the event by calling out “The Surgeon” and attempting to establish a reputation for himself. Now, Arenyeka has the golden opportunity to create one of the most surprising outcomes of the year. So, what motivated Whittaker to accept this fight?
“The [WBA Gold] belt is there. It came with him, and I said, ‘why not.’ He came into the press conference, saw his opportunity. I’m going to show why he shouldn’t do that again.”
