Error code: %{errorCode}

Boxing

Controversial British fighter hopes to “embarrass’ more opponents

Controversial British fighter hopes to “embarrass’ more opponentsEd Mullholland/Matchroom
There is speculation that he will kick on in 2024

Ben Whittaker has welcomed the criticism after his victory against Stiven Leonetti on Sunday evening, when he fought on the undercard of Chris Billam-Smith’s win over Mateusz Masternak.

Whittaker needed just four rounds to win via stoppage, and he remains unbeaten after turning professional last year.

Whittaker has been challenged by fellow British fighter Lewis Edmondson.

The Olympian attracted criticism for his showboating against an opponent who was expected to demonstrate little threat, but speaking to Sky Sports, he is happy with the reaction.

He said: "At the end of the day, the way I present myself, the way I talk, the target on my back with Sky Sports backing me, there's going to be a lot of eyes and a lot of people calling me out.

"That's what I like, competition, healthy competition.

"It gets that fire in your belly and allows me to hopefully embarrass more people."

"I finished the year the right way, bit of a nuisance the stop and start, built like the tin man right now.

"Hopefully 2024 is an active year for myself... another year of winning, performing and to keep putting myself out there.”

Watch on YouTube