University experts support Whittaker before fight

Ben Whittaker used the elite sports performance centre to train for his light-heavyweight bout against German Benjamin Gavazi

Olympic boxing silver medallist Ben Whittaker has trained at the University of Wolverhampton's sports performance facility ahead of his headline clash in Birmingham next month.

The undefeated 28-year-old faces Benjamin Gavazi on 29 November and used the state-of-the art facilities and met students during his session last week.

He took part in a day of performance testing and analysis, including assessments of body composition and metabolic function, the university said.

"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," he said.

His visit was organised through his nutritionist, who has previously collaborated with the university on a number of elite athlete programmes, the university said.

The visit not only supported Whittaker's training camp but also gave students a rare opportunity to work alongside a world-class athlete and gain experience in elite sports science practice, the spokesperson added.

"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," said Dr Ross Cloak, associate professor of sport and exercise science and laboratory director.

"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."