Matchroom Boxing reveals ‘game changer’ signing – Eddie Hearn hails ‘generational talent’

Matchroom Boxing remains involved with some of the biggest fighters and cards in boxing. 

The promotional giant has now announced the significant signing of Ben Whittaker to a long-term deal. The Team GB 2020 Tokyo Games silver medallist will now fight exclusively on DAZN, under the tutelage of Eddie Hearn and Frank Smith.

Whittaker (9-0-1, 6 KOs), will be unveiled as Matchroom’s newest recruit at a press conference on October 17, with full details on the presser to be revealed in due course.

Matchroom Boxing reveal ‘generational talent’ signing

Whittaker will continue to be trained by Andy Lee, who made an instant impact, training the “The Surgeon“ ahead of his light heavyweight rematch against Liam Cameron.

Whittaker spoke on his move to Matchroom and his excitement regarding the future:

“Ben Whittaker and Matchroom Boxing? It sounds very good – it’s got a nice ring to it,” said Whittaker, speaking to Matchroom Boxing.

“Of course, I came very close to signing before. But I’m here now, and that’s the main thing.

“I think things happen for a reason. I’m at the right stage in my career now to pick the right platform and go for the right fights. So this move just made sense.

“I’ve only had 10 fights so far – and there have been a few ups and downs in those. But I’m lucky that the experience I have so far will take me far in my career.

“From the amateurs to Olympic medals to professional wins, I’m ready for the next step and I truly feel like this is a fresh start. I can’t wait to embark on this new chapter. I have a great team behind me, with Andy Lee in my corner, and I am really excited to make my debut with Matchroom Boxing.”

Whittaker reveals hopes for the future

Discussing his hopes with Matchroom Boxing, Whittaker said:

“The plan now remains as what it was back then. Of course, my popularity has grown and my profile has got bigger. But I think with Eddie [Hearn] and Matchroom Boxing, I will become even more of a household name and one day become a World Champion.

“I’m ranked well with both the IBF and WBC, so that was another reason why I wanted to come on board with Matchroom because I believe they will help navigate my path towards winning those belts at the right time. And that’s what I’m here for.”

Matchroom Boxing discuss Ben Whittaker signing

Matchroom Sport Chairman Eddie Hearn couldn’t hide his delight at the Whittaker signing:

“He is phenomenal. This is the greatest signing to make in Boxing today. Ben Whittaker is a generational talent and we are ready to take his career to a whole new level,” said Hearn.

“This long-term deal will propel Ben to global superstardom, solidifying his reputation as a household name and steering him towards future World Titles. He will be No.1. He has the world at his feet and I am beyond excited to finally be promoting this great, young man.”

Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith also expressed his delight at the Whittaker signing:

“This is a truly satisfying signing for Matchroom Boxing. It’s a game changer and I couldn’t be happier. I have no doubt that Ben will become a World Champion. And we will do everything in our powers to promote him in the way he deserves – and the way the UK deserves too. He is a future legend of British boxing.”

Ben Whittaker has shown his class during his professional career, showing a clear progression in the Liam Cameron rematch. “The Surgeon” moves his feet well and picks his punches impressively. He punches with plenty of power, meaning this journey on Team Matchroom looks set to be an entertaining one.