Hearn believes Whittaker’s U.S. appearance could become a major breakthrough moment for the unbeaten British light heavyweight
Eddie Hearn believes boxing fans are still underestimating how quickly Ben Whittaker is developing despite the growing attention around his personality and showmanship. Matchroom is now positioning the Olympic silver medalist for a major American push ahead of his upcoming fight against Richard Rivera.
“I think one thing that people aren’t necessarily really sort of absorbing is how good Ben Whittaker is and how much he’s improving, because I think people just think he’s rolling through people. But the Suarez win was a really good win, especially in that fashion,” said Hearn to Boxingscene.
“And this fight against [Richard] Rivera, not an easy fight. He’s a decent, decent fighter. I think that whole week, that whole build up, the ring walk, the swag, everything, it’s going to grab everyone’s attention.”
Hearn made the comments while discussing Whittaker’s upcoming U.S. appearance and what Matchroom expects the unbeaten light heavyweight to gain from fighting in front of an American audience.
“I mean, you’ve got Emiliano Vargas and Ben Whittaker on that card. It’s really like two of the hottest stars right now, young stars coming through in their respective market. So, I think it’s going to be a big moment for him,” said Hearn.
“And, you know, after this, he’ll be back around October time, headlining in Birmingham.”
Hearn also suggested that Whittaker is already being linked to bigger names following Zac Chelli’s upset win over David Morrell.
“Yeah, I mean, I guess you have to put Zac in the mix for all those fights. He’s done brilliantly well, and he’s going to want big fights,” said Hearn.
