Ben Whittaker reflects on viral headbutt opponent Ezra Arenyeka landed between rounds during their clash: “I kind of liked it"
Ben Whittaker is one of the most exciting British prospects in boxing right now. He most recently secured an IBF international title against Ezra Arenyeka. The budding pugilist is known for his eye-catching and unorthodox style, which causes opponents to throw punches in frustration as Whittaker taunts them.
The 27-year-old recently appeared on Sky Sports News, where he reflected on his previous bout against Arenyeka. In that bout, the 'African King' landed a thudding headbutt on his opponent after some showboating by Whittaker.
Arenyeka's actions were spurred on by the Brit's decision to walk him back to his own corner in an apparent attempt to mock the Nigerian-born fighter, who then lashed out with a sweeping headbutt.
The current IBF International light heavyweight champion recounted the incident during his recent interview with Sky Sports News, saying this:
"I kind of liked it. It showed that I'm tough, I walked him back to the corner there and asked if he was okay. Then I get a little nod. But at the end of the day it's all fun and games. We didn't mean anything about it, and we shook hands after. But I ate [the headbutt] quite well."
Watch Ben Whittaker's interview below (6:20):
Ben Whittaker previews his next bout against Liam Cameron
Ben Whittaker will return to the squared circle on 12 Oct. as part of an incredibly stacked night of fights that will feature Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol in the main event.
The 27-year-old will face Liam Cameron on the undercard, which also features Shakur Stevenson's first fight since signing with Matchroom Boxing.
Ahead of Whittaker's IBF International title defense, he previewed the bout during his aforementioned interview with Sky Sports. Whilst the Brit believes that Cameron will be his toughest test to date, the 8-0 fighter is confident he will show himself to be far better than his opponent on the night.
He said this:
"[Cameron] was the top of the list, he's fought some good opponents. Won things previously. I said, 'Yeah, let me show how good I am.' And he's the person to show how good I am... He's the toughest opponent on paper [I've faced]. But I will show I'm a level above." [1:00-1:18 in Ben Whittaker's aforementioned interview]