Whittaker steps into the headline slot against Braian Suarez on DAZN after the Callum Smith vs David Morrell bout is postponed

Ben Whittaker has moved into the main event in Liverpool following the postponement of Callum Smith vs David Morrell. The unbeaten light heavyweight now headlines against Braian Suarez in his first main event fight.

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The change gives Whittaker (10-0-1, 7 KOs) his first headline position as a professional, replacing a fight that had been expected to carry the card. The 27-year-old said the opportunity came as a surprise, but one he intends to use to stay active and move toward bigger fights.

“Training camp has gone well. I’m confident, I feel good. Now it’s about going out there and performing the game plan,” Whittaker said in an interview with Matchroom.

Whittaker pointed to activity as the priority, linking regular fights to eventual opportunities at a higher level.

“For me, activity is key. I want to look good and win. The more you win, the more you get the bigger fights,” said Whittaker.

Suarez (21-4, 20 KOs) represents a step up on paper. The Argentine has 20 knockouts and previously challenged Lyndon Arthur in the UK in 2023 for the IBO title. Whittaker acknowledged the risk while backing his own ability.

“He’s had more knockouts than I’ve had fights. This is a good step up and a step up that I need. I just believe I’m better than him in every department.”

The bout follows Whittaker’s first-round stoppage of Benjamin Gavazi in November, a performance he referenced as evidence of his power.

“A lot of people have seen me dancing, but that knockout showed that I can really hit.”

A win would likely lead to a first fight in the United States, something Whittaker confirmed is part of the immediate plan, though he kept the focus on Saturday’s result.

“But you can’t look too far ahead. You need to get the job done,” said Ben.

Liverpool details and broadcast information are expected to draw a strong crowd despite the late change at the top of the card.