Ben Whittaker Faces Another Step Before World Title

Promoter Eddie Hearn stated that Ben Whittaker will likely need to take another interim fight before challenging for a world title, even if he defeats Conor Wallace in Saturday's IBF final eliminator in Birmingham. Hearn plans for Whittaker to return in February or March, potentially facing Anthony Yarde or the winner of Joshua Buatsi versus Willy Hutchinson before fighting the winner of Dmitry Bivol against Callum Smith.

According to Hearn, Whittaker's recent early knockouts mean an additional bout against an established contender would provide essential preparation. Furthermore, with Bivol and Smith expected to fight on December 12, the winner would not be ready to defend the belt by early 2027, making an interim fight practical for keeping Whittaker active.