Bulked-up Ben Whittaker aiming to deliver big statement as headline act

A bulked-up Ben Whittaker vowed to turn opponent Braian Suarez “into a steak” when they clash in Liverpool on Saturday night.

Darlaston’s boxing hero weighed in for the bout against Argentina’s Suarez heavier than ever before in his professional career, both men tipping the scales at 182 pounds for what is nominally a light-heavyweight contest.

That is nearly eight pounds more than Whittaker weighed ahead of his last two fights, both of which produced knockout performances against Liam Cameron and Benjamin Gavazi.

But the Tokyo 2020 silver medallist claims to feel in excellent shape and is aiming to deliver a statement against Suarez, who previously challenged for the IBO world title.

Whittaker said: “We have been working good. I am going to turn him into a steak this weekend.

“It’s a great opportunity, one I am going to take with both hands.”

Suarez is considered a dangerous opponent with 21 knockout on his CV. Whittaker, however, is in confident mood.

Asked what his plan was for the bout at the M&S Arena, he replied: “Going out there and looking pretty while doing it.

“When the fighters are game, that is when you will see the best Ben Whittaker. Fans, you are going to witness something great.”