Ben Whitaker Thrust Into Headliner Role

England's Ben Whittaker is preparing for what is now the highest profile fight of his professional career so far, as he steps into the spotlight to headline this Saturday’s Matchroom Boxing event at Liverpool’s M&S Bank Arena.

Whitaker's bout against Argentina’s hard-hitting Braian Suarez, will air globally live on DAZN.

Originally, the card was to have been topped by hometown favorite Callum Smith, who was to have faced Cuban born David Morrell for the WBO Interim Light Heavyweight Title. However, after Smith was forced to withdraw due to injury, the responsibility of main event status was handed to the polarizing Whittaker—an opportunity he has embraced with confidence.

“As a fighter, you always want to steal the show. So being the headliner is something special to me," Whitaker told Sky Sports on arrival earlier this week.  "I’ve fought here in Liverpool plenty of times. It is where I won my first ABA title, so this place genuinely means something to me.

“When my girlfriend and my manager first told me the news, I thought it was an April Fools! But I think when the stars align, everything happens for a reason and it’s down to me now to go and put a show on.”

Liverpool holds particular significance for Whittaker, as it was in this city that he captured his first ABA Championship as an amateur, a milestone that helped launch his journey toward winning a Silver Medal at the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Games. Returning now as a professional, he is eager to add another memorable chapter by delivering a standout performance.

Hear insider Dan Rafael and me preview Whitaker's main event bout off the newest "Big Fight Weekend Preview" Podcast by clicking play here,

The 27-year-old Whitaker with an unbeaten record of 10-0-1, 7 KOs, has made it clear that his ambitions stretch far beyond this weekend. A convincing win over Suarez, 21-4, 20 KOs, could pave the way for a long-awaited fight in the United States. That's a goal in his career progression and it could lead to the biggest names in the 175 lb. division.

Earlier this week, Whittaker and Suarez came face-to-face in Liverpool, squaring off outside the iconic Royal Liver Building. The encounter added to the growing anticipation, especially as tensions continue to rise.

Meanwhile, David Morrell—who was originally set to fight Smith—has publicly expressed interest in facing Whittaker next, further increasing the stakes surrounding the rising British star.

“They all call me out for a reason, I suppose. 100% it’s a compliment,” Whittaker said.

“On paper, perhaps I haven’t done too much yet but they are calling me out. So when you have these guys who are World Champions, or who have fought for World Titles, calling me out then it shows I’m doing something right.

“But, for me, when I get there I want to stay there. That’s why I listen to my team and trust the process in taking the fights that I’m supposed to be taking for now, then take over.”

Whittaker looks to build on the momentum from his last outing in November, where he delivered a devastating first-round knockout against Benjamin Gavazi.

However, Suarez is not to be underestimated as the Argentine has proven his power and resilience. Having previously fought in the UK against contender Lyndon Arthur in 2023, he is experienced on this stage and highly motivated to cause an upset.

Despite the threat, Whittaker remains confident on what observers and fans are looking for- less "clowning" and more skill and results in the ring.

“A lot of people have seen me dancing and stuff, but that knockout (of Gavazi) showed that I can really hit,” said Whittaker.

“I came out, hunted him down and got him out of there. What a night it was. Hopefully I can do the same again on Saturday.”

And, what would a follow up KO do here for the prospects for headed to the USA?

“That is the plan, of course,” he said.

“But you can never look too far ahead and you need to get the job done. God willing, everything goes to plan and I go to America. I’m looking forward to it."