British light-heavyweight Ben Whittaker scored a quick win by stopping Brian Suarez in the opening round at the M&S Bank Arena on April 18, 2026. The contest lasted only two minutes and 20 seconds, as Whittaker improved his record to 11–0–1 with eight knockouts.
The fight was made at short notice after Callum Smith withdrew from the planned fight due to injury. Despite the late change, Whittaker stepped into the main event and seized the moment without any delay. The quick finish marked his second consecutive first-round stoppage and drew a strong reaction from the crowd in Liverpool.
Ben Whittaker stops Brian Suarez in the opening round
Whittaker started the fight at a fast pace and quickly took control. He used his jab to create space and set up his shots. Within moments, he landed a clean overhand right that dropped Suárez to the canvas. The impact was obvious, and referee Howard Foster immediately stepped in to stop the contest.
The stoppage gave Whittaker another quick win after his previous first round finish against Benjamin Gavazzi. The result extended his unbeaten streak and added to his growing record in the light-heavyweight division.
After the fight, Whittaker talked about his progress and confidence. "For me, they can all call me out. They're calling me out for a reason. The more I get in this ring, the more experience I get, the more comfortable I get, it's dangerous for them."
The performance showed his ability to control and end the fight quickly without the need for additional rounds. The early finish also meant that he suffered little loss and remained active as he progressed in his career.
Eddie Hearn confirms US debut as he outlines next steps
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed Whittaker's next move immediately after the fight. Speaking on DAZN, he said the British fighter will make his American debut on June 27 at the Barclays Center.
The fight will take place on the undercard of the bout between Jaron Ennis and Xander Zayas. The event is expected to give Whittaker exposure to a new market as he continues to raise his profile.
"We know exactly what we're doing. Next, he's going where he needs to be, he's going where all the superstars go and love to walk in front of the bright lights – New York, he's coming."
Eddie Hearn also shared plans ahead of the US debut in an interview. He said Whittaker is expected to return to headline a major fight in Birmingham later this year. He said a final eliminator for the world title could be part of that plan.
"Jaron Ennis - 175-pounder in.”
The win in Liverpool and confirmation of the US date marks the next step in Whittaker's career as he continues to move up the light-heavyweight ranks.
