Ben Whittaker’s Victory Draws Heavy Criticism After Conor Wallace Fight

Ben Whittaker’s Victory Draws Heavy Criticism After Conor Wallace Fight

Ben Whittaker’s victory over Conor Wallace in their IBF light-heavyweight title eliminator has sparked strong reactions from several boxing figures, with many questioning his performance in the closing rounds.

Whittaker improved to 13-0-1 with nine knockouts after beating Wallace on October 3 in Birmingham. However, the British fighter struggled badly in the later stages, hitting the canvas several times as Wallace applied heavy pressure.

Former world title challenger Michael Conlan questioned why Whittaker would consider a rematch instead of pursuing a bigger fight, while Frank Warren warned against putting him in with Dmitry Bivol at this stage. Zak Chelli also criticised Whittaker’s fitness and claimed he would have stopped him late in the fight.

Other commentators, including Chris Mannix and Mark Butcher, also raised concerns about the level of opposition Whittaker has faced and his development as a professional. The debate has now intensified over whether the unbeaten Briton is ready for the elite level despite securing an important win.