Black Country boxing ace plots to light up New York with darts champ Luke Littler

Black Country boxing star Ben Whittaker has already hit the heights in New York before throwing a punch - after teaming up with darts sensation Luke Littler.

The pair are both aiming to be on target in the Big Apple this weekend, with Whittaker making his US debut when he faces Richard Rivera at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.

Two-time PDC world champion Littler, meanwhile, will throw for glory at the US Darts Masters at Madison Square Garden.

The duo duly joined forces for a photo shoot organised by promoter Matchroom Sports at The Edge, a viewing platform which sits 1,100 feet above street level at the top of one of Manhattan’s tallest skyscrapers.

“It was great to meet Luke and I’m sure he will light up MSG like I’m about to bring it to Brooklyn this Saturday,” said Whittaker, who is hunting a fourth straight knockout win.

Littler said: “Everyone knows I love my Boxing, so it was great to catch up with Ben.

“He’s a great showman and one of the most exciting fighters to watch. I hope we can both do the business here in New York.”

Littler is scheduled to get his Masters campaign underway on Thursday, around the same time Whittaker will attend the final press conference ahead of his 13th professional fight.

The 29-year-old has won both of his fights since switching promoter to Matchroom inside the first round and knows another convincing victory will move him closer to a potential world title shot next year.