Ben Whittaker set to make US debut on major undercard after highlight-reel KO

Ben Whittaker is heading stateside.

The Olympic silver medallist got off to a flying start to life with new promoter Matchroom in November, courtesy of a brutal knockout victory over the unheralded Benjamin Gavazi at Birmingham’s NEC.

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In the immediate aftermath of his homecoming fight, Eddie Hearn declared that Whittaker would next make his debut on American soil.

The initial plan was for the 28-year-old to box across the pond in either February or March, but it now appears that his return to the ring will come a touch later than had first been anticipated.

Speaking to Ring Magazine, Whittaker (10-0-1) confirmed on Wednesday that his next assignment is expected to fall on the undercard of a much-anticipated domestic dust-up between Jaron Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr.

“It’s a good feeling. It shows that you are doing something right and the hard work is paying off,” said Whittaker.

“It’s only right to fight in the U.S. soon and make my name. It’s only up from here.

“I’m in a big position with Matchroom behind me.

“I have to win and look good. If you don’t win, the show doesn’t go on.

“I can fight from all angles, and now it’s showing that I can hurt people, too.

“It’s going to be an exciting year for me. I know how good I am, but you can’t rush the process. I want to get there as a champion.”

Jaron Ennis vs Vergil Ortiz Jr latest

Ortiz Jr and Ennis have been in on-and-off negotiations since early last year.

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A 2025 date was scuppered when Ennis opted to take a warm-up against Uisma Lima in his maiden appearance at 154lbs.

The situation has since been further complicated by an ongoing legal battle between Ortiz Jr, Golden Boy Promotions and Oscar De La Hoya.

Ortiz Jr filed a lawsuit against his promoter, alleging breach of contract and “interference with economic advantage” as justification to have his contract voided.

De La Hoya has since sued Ortiz Jr’s manager, Rick Mirigian, claiming the boxing mogul made “behind-the-scenes interferences” with Golden Boy’s contract, including sharing confidential information with rival promoters.

The former six-weight world champion is seeking more than $10million in damages.

And yet, amongst all of this, both parties are said to be in advanced talks for an April fight date in Las Vegas.