Boxing
Ben Whittaker's opponent cites Mike Tyson's lesson ahead of fight
Watch Whittaker vs Arenyeka on Peacock (U.S. only)
Ezra Arenyeka is taking inspiration from Mike Tyson on how to beat Ben Whittaker.
Whittaker takes on Arenyeka this Saturday (live on Peacock in the US), and he has made himself known as one of the most exciting fighters in the light heavyweight division due to his showboating exploits.
For his challenger, this has been a long time coming.
“The thing is with Ben, he’s been on my mind for two or three years. I actually made a video two years ago after one of my fights calling Ben out,” he told BoxingScene.
On the line this weekend is the vacant WBA Gold championship at 175lbs, which is just part of the motivation.
He explained: “Did I expect it? Yes. Because of my record and the theatrics of me going out there and calling him out. Promoters love it. It’s easy for them to sell the fight. My ranking is good, my record is good and it’s a great title fight. We’re now fighting for the WBA Gold title. A part of me – 80 per cent – thought it would happen immediately. The other 20 per cent wasn’t sure,” he said.
“When I started boxing, this is what I dreamed of. Boxing on the biggest stage and getting my name out there. This is about me. It’s not about Ben. It’s about Ezra Aranyenka.
“I’m going to find out who I am. I’m gonna find out if this sport is for me. I’ve trained hard. I’ve done everything necessary. God’s will, I’ll come out on top. “
He then cited Tyson’s famous aphorism to explain how he could upset the odds.
“As Mike Tyson says, everybody has a plan until you get punched in the face. I’m just going there to win. I’m going in there to take him out. That’s the plan,” he said.
“I’m gonna be professional. The best man – me – is going to win. I’ve got the power so that is half the fight done already.
“I think there are some big differences. Power is one. Will is another. Determination is another. Those three components put together put me on top.
“It’s a fight at the end of the day. Skill can only take you so far and it’s about the will. I’ve got the heart. Does he have the heart? I don’t know. We’ll find out on June 15th.
“A win does a lot for me. It changes my life and puts me on the map. It gets me better opportunities. The world will get to know me. Everything is on the line for me. That’s why I've put everything in and that’s why on fight night there’s going to be no let up. I’m going to be on him.
“I’m going for the win and for the knockout. I’m not leaving it for the judges. On that day, everything is going to be on the line.”
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