Frank Warren doesn’t want British judges for Fury vs Whyte in wake of Josh Taylor scoring controversy
Taylor retained his titles after controversially being awarded victory over Jack Catterall on Saturday
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Frank Warren has said that scoring controversies are “killing the credibility of boxing” and that he does not want British judges for the fight between Tyson Fury and Dillian Whyte.
The promoter’s comments come in the wake of the Josh Taylor’s win over Jack Catterall, which was scored the champion’s way in a split decision after a fight that Catterall appeared to have the better of.
The British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) is investigating the scoring of the fight, particularly that of judge Ian John-Lewis.
With Whyte and Fury due to face one another in a high-profile heavyweight clash at Wembley Stadium in April, it would be expected that an all-British encounter would be overseen by a home referee and panel of judges.
But The Times reports that Warren has written to the BBBofC to say he does not want British officials appointed, and urged the organisation to “downgrade” the “incompetent” judges.
Josh Taylor’s Saturday victory was baffling and controversial – a classic boxing result
Josh Taylor must brace himself for welterweight venture as pressure mounts on disputed champion
Josh Taylor vs Jack Catterall scoring to be investigated by British Boxing Board
Dillian Whyte refusing to attend Tyson Fury fight press conference, promoter Bob Arum claims
‘I’m with you all the way’: Anthony Joshua rooting for Dillian Whyte against Tyson Fury
“This has to stop, it was terrible for Jack [Catterall] and is killing the credibility of boxing,” Warren wrote.
“If they were football referees they would be downgraded but what happens – they move on to the next show without any accountability.
“I do not want British officials for Fury-Whyte.
“As our governing body, stop this chummy jobs for the boys and do something for the sake of our sport, the Jack Catteralls, and downgrade these incompetent officials.”
Whyte is not expected Tuesday’s press conference ahead of the 23 April fight.
The 33-year-old will challenge the unbeaten Fury for his WBC and The Ring heavyweight titles.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments