Boxing
Is Whittaker ready for Best of British light-heavyweight stars?
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Ben Whittaker is riding high in the light-heavyweight division - and the Briton has no plans to slow his ascent towards the summit.
Fresh off April's unexpected headliner against Braian Nahuel Suarez in Liverpool, the star is preparing to make his stateside debut.
But that hasn't stopped 'The Surgeon' from looking across the rest of a busy decision and debating who he also wants to carve up.
One name on the star's lips is Anthony Yarde, with the three-time world title challenger a contender firmly in his sights for a dance.
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If Whittaker were to secure an opportunity, it would undoubtedly mark the biggest name of his career yet - but is he ready for it too?
Here, DAZN News considers whether the star could get his dream fight, his other options and if he is ready for a Best of British bout.
What has Whittaker said about Yarde?
Speaking to The Ring, Whittaker said that Yarde would be "a very good name" for him to fight, particularly given their career paths.
Five years older, 'The Beast from The East' is arguably on the wane when it comes to his powers, even as he remains a live threat.
"I got a lot of respect for him," Whittaker said of his foe. "[I] think I'd beat him. The young puppy versus the older pup would be good."
The star was also at pains to suggest that his current calibre of opponent should not be overlooked too, adding: "I'm not fighting idiots.
"I've done step-ups already, but people kind of overlook them. When I go out there and perform the way I do, I make them look ordinary.”
Is Whittaker ready to face Yarde?
That is the bigger question. Whittaker's professional record is near-flawless, barring a technical draw against Liam Cameron in 2024.
He made swift amends in a brutal rematch stoppage there, and has since turned over Benjamin Gavazi and Suarez in a round each.
That kind of pace has drawn comparisons to the meteoric rise of Moses Itauma. But nevertheless, there are questions that remain too.
Whittaker is yet to bank the rounds he would want at this higher level. He is yet to have his chin tested in a way that pressures him.
Yarde's last two losses came against Artur Beterbiev and David Benavidez, generational talents. Even with those losses, he is a step-up.
Who else could Whittaker face?
If Whittaker is not ready for Yarde, then there is still a murderer's row of British light-heavyweight options for the star to pursue next.
Queensberry/Leigh Dawney
Richard Rivera is on the docket first, of course, but with America done and dusted, what about a bout with Willy Hutchinson instead?
The Scot is riding high after turning over Ezra Taylor in his last outing, and would relish the chance to tackle Whittaker in the ring.
Craig Richards and Zach Parker would be other appealing options too, though Callum Smith and Joshua Buatsi may be locked up.
Whatever the choice Matchroom make, Whittaker is determined to prove he belongs with the big boys. Soon enough, he'll have his shot.
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