Boxer leaves Saudi arena in a wheelchair after tumbling over the ring with his opponent at Beterbiev vs. Bivol event
A rare scene unfolded at the Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol boxing event in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia as Ben Whittaker left the arena in a wheelchair following an accident during his bout against Liam Cameron. The bout culminated in a split-decision draw after Whittaker sustained an ankle injury, rendering him unable to continue.
The incident occurred in the fifth round of their 10-round light-heavyweight contest. As the two fighters exchanged blows, a clash sent both Whittaker and Cameron tumbling over the top rope and onto the ring apron. The fall resulted in an injury for Whittaker, who could not return for the sixth round.
Whittaker, known for his flashy style and showboating, entered the fight with an unblemished record of 8-0, aiming to claim the IBF International title. He started strong, showcasing his rapid jabs and a powerful right to the body. However, as the fight progressed, Cameron found his rhythm, and dictated the pace, countering effectively and even taunting Whittaker.
The bout had taken a toll on Whittaker, and by the fifth round, he appeared to struggle against Cameron's heavy-handed approach. The fight abruptly came to a halt when both fighters fell through the ropes, leaving Whittaker injured and unable to stand.
The scores were later revealed as a split draw with one judge scoring it 58-57 in favor of Whittaker. Another judge had it the same for Cameron, while the third judge scored it an even 58-58.
Whittaker was escorted from the arena in a wheelchair immediately following the injury. It was revealed during the live broadcast that Whittaker had been taken to a nearby hospital, although the exact details of the injury remain uncertain.
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With this draw, Whittaker's record stands at 8 wins and one draw. On the other hand, Cameron recorded his first draw in his 31-fight professional career, with 23 wins, 6 losses, and one draw (1 NC).