British boxing's next big superstar is ready to take the reins from Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury

08/03/2024 19:52

In this week’s column, Ben Shalom takes a look to the future as he gives his verdict on who will take the mantle from Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury as British boxing’s next big star…

Ben Whittaker is destined to become the face of British boxing for years to come.

As Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury approach the end of their careers, boxing fans are left wondering who will fill their shoes.

Well, I can say with complete confidence that Whittaker is that guy.

I’ve never worked with a more complete boxer during my time in the sport.

Anyone who has ever seen him fight will know exactly what I mean.

Whittaker has it all; the world-class boxing fundamentals, the one-punch knockout power and, of course, the charisma.

He had a frustrating year last year after picking up a few niggles but it only made him more determined to come back better than ever.

And now, he is ready to push on in 2024.

NEXT STEPS

I see a lot of people calling for Whittaker to box the likes of Joshua Buatsi, Anthony Yarde and Callum Smith.

However, the reality is that we won’t see those fights until next year.

He’s a fantastic fighter and a tremendous talent, but at just 26 years old he’s got a long career ahead.

There’s no need to rush him at this stage. But believe me when I say, once he’s there there’ll be no looking back.

For now, though, his next fight is scheduled for March 31 on the Frazer Clarke vs Fabio Wardley bill at the O2 Arena, London.

His opponent hasn’t been announced just yet, but you can expect to hear about that early next week once Joshua vs Francis Ngannou is behind us.

It’s a good step up in competition – that’s all I’ll say.

THE NEXT NASEEM HAMED

There have been comparisons drawn between Whittaker and Nassem Hamed – what a great compliment to be paid.

I think that comes from the effect he is having on the country as well as the dancing and showboating that has made him into an internet sensation.

You can’t take your eyes off of him, and for a lot of people, the last time they saw that it was Hamed, who went on to be one of the biggest stars we’ve ever seen.

Not just here, but also in the United States as well. I expect Whittaker to follow very firmly in his footsteps.

There isn’t an intention to imitate, the only intention is to be himself.

It is early days in his career but to think that after just six professional fights he has over one million followers and is one of the most talked about fighters in this country already, that’s a phenomenal trajectory.

Not since Joshua’s rise in the mid-2010s has there been such excitement about a young Brit.

It’s almost like a fever pitch and you can see it taking off.