Following a controversial boxing match in Saudi Arabia, British champion Ben Whittaker found himself at the center of a heated altercation at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. The incident occurred just hours after Whittaker’s bout with Liam Cameron ended in a split decision draw at the Kingdom Arena on Saturday.
Witnesses reported that the 27-year-old former Olympian was spotted walking through airport security shortly after midnight, his ankle visibly bandaged from an injury sustained during the match. As Whittaker made his way through the terminal, a fan wearing boxing merchandise approached him, attempting to take a photo.
According to bystanders, Whittaker firmly objected to being photographed, allegedly snatching the fan’s phone and forcefully smashing it on the ground. The situation quickly escalated, with Whittaker reportedly stepping towards the fan in a confrontational manner. Members of Whittaker’s team swiftly intervened to prevent further escalation.
Airport security promptly detained both Whittaker and the fan, temporarily confiscating their passports. The incident caused a significant disturbance in the terminal, drawing attention from other travelers.
In an unexpected turn, security officials escorted the pair to a nearby coffee shop, where they were instructed to exchange contact information. Witnesses described the unusual scene of the boxer and fan sitting side by side, seemingly resolving their differences.
Whittaker later addressed the incident, stating, “This was a really unfortunate event, and I’m grateful to the gentleman that he sat down to talk about it straight afterwards and accepted my apology.” He added that arrangements were being made to replace the fan’s phone and invite him to a future event as a guest.
The altercation came on the heels of a peculiar end to Whittaker’s match against Cameron. During the fifth round, both boxers tumbled over the top rope, with Whittaker sustaining an injury to his right leg. The bout, part of the Riyadh Season – IV Crown Showdown card, was subsequently decided by technical decision, resulting in the split draw.
