I was watching Ben Whittaker at the Olympics and I thought he looked great. He had advanced level movement and punch selection (even against the Cuban). I thought he edged that fight but lost because that Cuban style is lapped up by the amateur judges. He is very highly rated amongst certain boxing trainers. Does he win a version of the world title by 2026, by around aged 28? I think the test of a successful Olympian is that they are a world champion within 5 years of turning pro. I think he will achieve that.
It’s so hard to say. So many Olympians look good but then for whatever reason fail in the pro game. Loads don’t do great but then end up becoming world champions. I do like Whittaker though, he seems a good character with a bit of personality and of course he’s very talented. All the best to him.
He said he wants to compete at super middleweight so who knows but it entirely depends on the climate at super middleweight in 2026. I would say he will be a world title contender just like i think Buatsi is a world title contender atm.
Looks the part. Big question mark for me is his power, it’ll be interesting to see him plant his feet more and adapt to the pro style. His movement is exceptional but if he can’t crack, certain fighters will walk through him. Completely different styles but watching Buatsi in the Olympics, he was punching hard and hurting people regularly. This has translated well since turning over.
I’ve watched Whittaker for a while and backed him to medal which he did. He said he wants to try and fight at 168 at the start of his career, which is probably for the best, considering I don’t think he punches too hard and apparently he has a suspect chin too. He is very tall (6’3), so I’m hoping he doesn’t get caught out with what division he fights at. It just depends on who is in his division at the time, but he is more than talented enough to win a World Title for sure. If I had to make a prediction though, I would actually say he doesn’t win a World Title (I hope I’m wrong). The way he fights in the amateurs, if he fights similar to that in the professional ranks he won’t be able to do that for 12 rounds (like Josh Kelly).
i like this kid good attitude trying to get down to 168 could be a wise move all the best with his career
Very talented and will frustrate a lot of professionals. You need to put people on the back foot in the pro game though and hurt them which I'm not sure he will do while going up the levels. I hope I'm wrong though as I enjoy watching him. All the best Ben.
