Elite boxer Ben Whittaker trains at University of Wolverhampton ahead of headline fight

The University of Wolverhampton was proud to host Olympic silver medallist and rising boxing star Ben Whittaker at its state-of-the-art Sports Performance facility this week, as part of his preparations for his upcoming headline bout against Benjamin Gavazi in Birmingham on 29 November.

Ben and his team visited the University for a full day of performance testing and analysis, including assessments of body composition, VO₂ max, and metabolic function. This was Ben’s first visit to the University, facilitated through his nutritionist, who has previously collaborated with the University on a number of elite athlete programmes.

“It was fantastic to welcome Ben Whittaker and his team into our Sports Performance facility as he prepares for his headline bout against Benjamin Gavazi in Birmingham on November 29.

“Having an elite athlete of Ben’s calibre in the building not only showcases the level of applied sport science we deliver, but also highlights the benefit of having world-class sports science facilities here at the University of Wolverhampton. These resources allow us to support elite performers while giving our students invaluable, hands-on experience working directly with world-class professionals during their training camps.

“The students involved on the day did a fantastic job, and it was great to hear such positive feedback from Ben and his team,” said Dr. Ross Cloak, Associate Professor of Sport and Exercise Science and Laboratory Director.

The University’s specialist equipment - used to assess body composition and metabolic function - is among the most advanced in the region, offering elite athletes access to precision diagnostics and performance insights that create the competitive advantage.

Ben Whittaker praised the experience, saying:

“It’s been brilliant. The facilities here are top-level, and the team really know their stuff. It’s great to be able to work with people who are passionate about sport and performance - it makes a big difference in the build-up to a fight.”

The visit not only supported Ben’s training camp but also provided University students with a rare opportunity to work alongside a world-class athlete, gaining real-world experience in elite sports science practice.

Ben Whittaker trains with BSC (Hons) Sports and Exercise Science students

For more information on Sports and Exercise Science courses, visit: BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science - University of Wolverhampton