Light-heavyweight Olympic Silver Medallist Ben Whittaker has turned professional and signed a long-term deal with Boxxer.
The much sought-after signature has been won by promoter Ben Shalom who will showcase Whittaker on Sky Sports alongside Tokyo 2020 team-mates Lauren Price, Karriss Artingstall, Frazer Clarke and Caroline Dubois.
The 24-year-old, who is a client of Anthony Joshua’s 258 Management, will be trained by Sugar Hill, a man that has been instrumental in turning around the career of WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.
Speaking at today’s announcement Whittaker said: “Well they always say save the best ‘till last and here I am, I’m very excited to turn this new chapter in my career! It’s an exciting time for me to showcase my skills! I’m now looking forward to getting into camp, where I can add and develop to my game. I hope you enjoy the journey because it’s gonna be a crazy one!”
New trainer Hill says Whittaker is on a similar talent level to the legendary Roy Jones Jr.
“I’m totally thrilled to have been sought out and chosen by Ben Whittaker of the 2020 Olympic Games on Great Britain’s highly talented and dominating boxing team. I consider Ben to be on the talent level of a Roy Jones Jr in transitioning from amateur into a Professional World Champion superstar status.”
Ben Shalom described Whittaker as the “biggest future star in British boxing” and Anthony Joshua says 258’s new addition can set the boxing world alight.
“Ben is a really special talent with a fantastic amateur pedigree. He has had some tough decisions to make whilst turning professional but now finally he’s here!
“Managed by the best team in the game, 258 Management, I think he is ready to set the world boxing scene on fire. Everyone get ready for a special journey. Ben is the future PPV star.”