DAZN News Daily Round-Up - American debut for major British star and former Anthony Joshua rival has title dream

We have all the news you are waking up to on Thursday, February 12.

Whittaker heading to USA

Ben Whittaker’s American debut could come on one of the biggest shows of 2026. 

Earlier this week, The Ring reported that Jaron Ennis and Vergil Ortiz are close to finalising a huge battle for April and they are now speculating that Whittaker could be on the undercard . 

Whittaker signed for Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom last year and immediately it was made clear by his new promoter that America was a big target for the man from Wolverhampton. 

Ennis vs. Ortiz still has some work to do, but if the fight gets over the line as many within the sport of boxing expect, Whittaker lighting up the undercard could be a huge opportunity for the British prospect. 

The Ring

Benavidez targeting major names

David Benavidez’s next fight appears to be at cruiserweight, but that does not mean he has finished at light heavyweight. 

The Arizona man enjoyed a stellar 2025 as he picked up two big wins over David Morrell and Anthony Yarde to maintain his unbeaten record. 

After beating Yarde in November, Benavidez was insistent that he was moving to cruiserweight and there has been some talk that he will take on Gilberto Ramirez in May. 

If that fight takes place, Benavidez could become world champion in a third weight class and the door for a move to heavyweight could also be ajar. 

Despite the temptation to test himself against boxing’s biggest names at heavyweight, Benavidez has now confirmed that Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev are the opponents he wants. 

“I’m going to fight Zurdo Ramirez,” said Benavidez on the Danza Project.  

“Then we’re gonna come down, and we’re gonna make that fight with [Dmitry] Bivol. Then after that we’re gonna fight [Artur] Beterbiev.” 

Charles Martin wants heavyweight glory

Charles Martin is back in action this weekend and the former heavyweight champion is targeting further glory in his division. 

Ten years ago, Martin lost his world crown when he was destroyed in two rounds by Anthony Joshua, but that setback has not deterred his title dreams. 

Martin has tried to rebuild following the loss to Joshua in 2016, but further defeats against the likes of Luis Ortiz and Jared Anderson have increased his distance from title opportunities. 

Martin faces fellow contender, Efe Ajagba, in Las Vegas and he has bigger fights on his mind as he prepares for his next outing. 

"I definitely have unfinished business in boxing," said Martin when interviewed by Sky Sports. 

"It is my goal to become a two-time heavyweight champion. Obviously, beating Efe Ajagba will be a step in the right direction." 

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