Whittaker survives late scare to carry on for factors win over Wallace

Whittaker made an extravagant entrance, accompanied by a stay string ensemble enjoying WWE star The Undertaker’s theme earlier than switching to “Icon” by Karen.

Despite being from close by West Bromwich, Whittaker was greeted by as many jeers as cheers from the roughly 5,000 followers inside the sector.

The combat got here alive within the third when Whittaker briefly staggered Wallace with a shot that skimmed his brow.

Wallace’s travelling help made themselves heard, solely to be drowned out by an airhorn smuggled into the sector as Whittaker discovered his rhythm

Among these in attendance had been former UFC champion Leon Edwards and American Cassondra Gainey, who travelled nearly 4,000 miles from North Carolina after Whittaker’s social-media movies helped carry her spirits throughout most cancers remedy.

Wallace supplied a warning of what was to return when he landed a heavy left within the sixth.

“Stay targeted. Just since you’re comfy, do not get lazy,” coach Andy Lee instructed Whittaker, who regained management earlier than an virtually disastrous tenth spherical.

Wallace harm him with a thudding southpaw left earlier than Whittaker walked on to an enormous shot and appeared in deep trouble.

Whittaker briefly bought some respite when Wallace was warned for punching on the break, however he continued pushing ahead as a serious upset abruptly felt doable.

Whittaker hit the canvas 3 times within the ultimate spherical, none dominated knockdowns, as Wallace threw the whole lot at a visibly tiring opponent.

By the top, Whittaker had achieved sufficient to win – however not with out giving Wallace and his help motive to surprise what may need occurred with slightly extra time.

“I solely have myself accountable,” he mentioned. “I really feel like I’ve bought the very best help within the planet. This felt like my residence present tonight though it is in Birmingham.”

Promoter Eddie Hearn welcomed the opportunity of a rematch: “We know Ben is within the place to combat the winner of Bivol-Smith however it’s possible that will not be till subsequent summer time, so he must combat within the interim.”