Ben Whittaker could become the latest name to join the ever-growing list of fighters boxing in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalcik is believed to be a fan of the British light heavyweight. The boxer currently promoting Whittaker is not involved in the Middle East's boxing boom, which has seen bouts with the likes of Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Deontay Wilder in recent months.
Whittaker will return to the ring on June 15 against Nigeria's Ezra Arenyeka. Their 10-round bout will take place outdoors at Selhurst Park, the home of Crystal Palace FC, and will be headlined by the WBO cruiserweight title bout between Chris Billam-Smith and Richard Riakpohe.
At yesterday's press conference, boxing news Whittaker asked if he could see him fight in Saudi Arabia someday.
“100 percent,” he enthused.
“I think that's where great boxing is going right now. And [with] If you're a big name in boxing, you can say my name. It's only been 7 fights so far, but he brings a lot of razzmatazz. That is especially what the people of Saudi Arabia want to see. [It’s] It is definitely visible in the near future, but for now [I’ve] I have to focus on the next thing. ”
Next up is a challenge with a loud, cocky, confident, and undefeated 175-pound fighter. During a press conference for Whittaker's last fight, against Leon Willings, Alenieka interrupted her proceedings by addressing her by her first name and calling her a “surgeon.” He now has a chance to pull off one of the biggest upsets of the year. So why did Whittaker agree to the match?
” [WBA Gold] There is a belt. I said, because it came with him.Why not? ' He came to the press conference and sensed his opportunity. I'm going to prove why he shouldn't do it again. ”