Ben Whittaker is open to the possibility of stepping into the boxing ring in Saudi Arabia in the near future, potentially adding his name to the growing roster of fighters who have competed in the Middle Eastern country.
Reports suggest that Turki Alalshikh, the chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority, holds an interest in the British light-heavyweight boxer. Although Boxxer, Whittaker’s current promoters, haven’t been part of the recent boxing events in Saudi Arabia that featured the likes of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, and Deontay Wilder, there seems to be a mutual intrigue.
Whittaker is set to return to action on June 15th against Nigerian boxer Ezra Arenyeka in a 10-round bout at Selhurst Park, the home ground of Crystal Palace FC. This event features a headline fight for the WBO cruiserweight title between Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakporhe.
During a recent press conference, Whittaker expressed his openness to fighting in Saudi Arabia, stating, “100 per cent. I think that’s where the big-time boxing is headed now. And when you talk about big-time boxing, you have to mention my name. I may be only seven fights in, but I bring a lot of excitement. It’s what the fans want, especially in Saudi Arabia. It’s something we could definitely see happening soon, but for now, I need to focus on my upcoming bout.”
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Looking ahead to his next challenge, Whittaker will face Arenyeka, an undefeated 175lb fighter known for his outspoken and confident demeanor. Arenyeka made his presence known during Whittaker’s previous fight press conference, aiming to make a name for himself by calling out “The Surgeon.” Whittaker accepted the challenge, motivated by the opportunity to claim the WBA Gold belt that accompanies the fight. He intends to demonstrate why interrupting press conferences to challenge him is not a wise move.
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