Veteran coach Adam Booth believes the boxing world is witnessing the start of a special era for Ben Whittaker following his link-up with former middleweight champion Andy Lee.
Having witnessed Lee’s development firsthand under the tutelage of the legendary Emanuel Steward, Booth is uniquely positioned to assess Lee's transition to the corner. According to Booth, the signs of a great coach were always evident in Lee.
"I always thought Andy would be a brilliant trainer," Booth stated. "He’s got a fantastic brain, he’s very cool and calm in the corner. I think he’s just got the perfect talent [and] minerals to work with in Ben Whittaker. It looks like a match made in heaven."
While the coaching dynamic appears settled, the path forward in the ring remains treacherous. Booth described the 175-pound division as "red hot," suggesting there are "10 or 15 names" that could be made immediately. However, he emphasized that Whittaker holds the leverage because of his commercial appeal.
"There’s going to be punchers that want him, there’s going to be boxers that want him," Booth explained. "He’s box office and he’s a huge brand, and he’s going to make everybody a lot of money, including himself."
Booth rattled off a list of potential domestic and international roadblocks that could test the young star's credentials. He mentioned Gradus Kraus in Rotterdam and the winner of the upcoming clash between Craig Richards and Dan Azeez in Ghana. He also highlighted the winner of Ezra Taylor vs. Willy Hutchinson as a viable option.
Looking further up the ladder, Booth outlined a gauntlet of "big boys" waiting in the wings, specifically naming Callum Smith, Anthony Yarde, Zach Parker, and Joshua Buatsi. Beyond the domestic scene, he pointed to the division's elite—Dmitry Bivol, Artur Beterbiev, and David Benavidez—as the ultimate destination.
Despite the crowded field and the flashiness often associated with Whittaker, Booth remains convinced that the Olympian has the temperament to succeed.
"If he keeps his feet on the ground, which I believe he will... his dedication is there and I think he wants this badly," Booth said. "He’s a cool, calm guy and I think he’ll go a long way in this sport."
