Dillian Whyte has gone from unpolished gem to the finished article according to highly-respected trainer Peter Fury. So much so that he’s now ready to become a world heavyweight champion.
‘The Body Snatcher’ (27-1) has been mandatory contender for the World Boxing Council (WBC) title for more than 1000 days now – and he puts that status on the line again in a dangerous mission against Russian veteran Alexander Povetkin (35-2-1) at Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Fight Camp on Saturday August 22 (live on Sky Sports Box Office pay-per-view).
Should he come out victorious there, Whyte should get a crack at the winner of Tyson Fury vs Deontay Wilder 3 with the WBC’s hallowed green belt on the line.
And Peter Fury – who trained Tyson to initially become world heavyweight champion against Wladimir Klitschko back in 2015 – believes Whyte is ready to take on the biggest challenge of his life.
He told Sky Sports: “He’s a lot more relaxed. His footwork is a lot better. Before he was a bit clumsy going around the ring, he was very predictable, but now he is not.
“He’s a lot more polished, he’s relaxed and he’s boxing, he’s getting behind his jab. The improvements are endless. He’s made fantastic improvements.”
That elusive world-title shot appears now to be finally right in view for Whyte, and Fury said: “I think he’s ready. His mindset is there and I think he will win a world title. I think when he gets his time, Dillian, he’ll do it.
“He’s a good, solid fighter, and let’s not forget how much he’s come on as well. He’s improved a lot over the years, and he’s dedicated, so I see him doing big things.
“I think he’s ready for a world title, and he should lift one, as and when he gets the opportunity.”
