WBC Mandates Buatsi-Whittaker Eliminator
The World Boxing Council (WBC) made a significant move during their 63rd annual convention in Bangkok, Thailand, by ordering a final light heavyweight title eliminator between Joshua Buatsi and Ben Whittaker. This decision is a crucial step towards determining the next contender for the current light heavyweight champion, David Benavidez. Buatsi, a 32-year-old veteran, and Whittaker, a 28-year-old rising star, are both eager to prove their worth in the ring and take the next step in their careers.
Ben Whittaker: A Promising Young Talent
Ben Whittaker’s journey in professional boxing has been marked by significant achievements, most notably his capture of the vacant WBC Silver light heavyweight title in a first-round knockout against Benjamin Gavazi. This victory has put him in a strong position to face Buatsi in the title eliminator. However, despite his recent success and Olympic Silver medal, there are concerns about whether Whittaker is truly ready to face a more experienced opponent like Buatsi. Whittaker’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has been cautious with his career progression, treating him like a prospect with no amateur background.
Eddie Hearn’s Strategic Approach
Eddie Hearn’s cautious approach to Whittaker’s career is not without reason. Hearn’s decision to keep Whittaker in the “third tier” and gradually work him up to the “first tier” is a strategy aimed at ensuring his long-term success. This strategy became evident after Whittaker’s near-disaster in his first fight against journeyman Liam Cameron in 2024. Hearn’s plan involves carefully selecting opponents to build Whittaker’s confidence and skills, rather than rushing him into high-stakes battles. Whittaker’s recent victory over Benjamin Gavazi, a lower-level fighter, further illustrates Hearn’s strategy of maintaining a controlled and deliberate career path for his protégé.
The Challenges Ahead
Despite Hearn’s strategic approach, the path to the top of the light heavyweight division is fraught with challenges. Whittaker’s next opponent, Joshua Buatsi, is a seasoned fighter with a strong record. Buatsi, currently ranked #5 by the WBC, has a wealth of experience that could prove difficult for the younger Whittaker to overcome. Hearn’s reluctance to rush Whittaker into this fight is understandable, given the potential risks involved. The light heavyweight division is one of the most competitive in boxing, with top-tier fighters like David Benavidez, Dmitry Bivol, and Artur Beterbiev dominating the landscape.
Hearn’s Tier System: A Double-Edged Sword
Eddie Hearn’s tier system, while designed to protect Whittaker and build his career, has its critics. Some argue that avoiding top-tier fighters like David Morrell, Imam Khataev, and Arlen Lopez (who defeated Whittaker in the Olympics) is a sign of Hearn’s reluctance to expose his protégé to the harsh realities of the professional boxing world. By not mentioning these fighters as part of the second tier, Hearn is effectively shielding Whittaker from potential exposure. This strategy, while protecting Whittaker’s record, may also limit his development and ultimate potential.
A Path to Greatness or Cautionary Tales
As the WBC pushes for the Buatsi-Whittaker eliminator, the boxing world watches with bated breath. Whittaker’s journey is one of promise and potential, but it is also a tale of strategic caution. Hearn’s approach, while well-intentioned, could either lead to a bright future for Whittaker or become a cautionary tale of missed opportunities. The light heavyweight division is unforgiving, and only time will tell if Whittaker is ready to take on the best and rise to the top. For now, the stage is set for a pivotal fight that could shape the future of both fighters and the division.
