Dillian Whyte announces split from trainer Mark Tibbs ahead of Alexander Povetkin test

Planet Sport writerStaff Writer8 July 2020
Dillian Whyte and Mark Tibbs

Dillian Whyte and Mark Tibbs

Dillian Whyte is due to headline Week 4 of Matchroom Boxing’s Fight Camp against Alexander Povetkin on August 22…

The ‘Bodysnatcher’ announced via his Twitter account on Wednesday morning that he and trainer Mark Tibbs have mutually parted ways. Whyte is currently in Portugal training for his upcoming fight with experienced heavyweight Alexander Povetkin - which is live and exclusive on Sky Sports Box Office.

Whyte is the WBC's No.1 ranked fighter

Whyte said: “Mark came into my team 4 years ago and has helped turn me into the world class boxer that I am today.

“[He] is a great trainer and I will always be grateful to him and his Dad for all they have done.”

The split does appear to be very cordial, with Whyte rightly being very complimentary of his now former trainer. But this could still prove to be a huge blow for Whyte moving forward if he doesn’t find the right cornerman before his showdown with Povetkin. 

The duo had big success during their four years together after Tibbs was appointed following Whyte’s knockout defeat to Anthony Joshua in 2015.
After restoring his reputation at domestic level with victories over Dave Allen and Ian Lewison, the Brixton man had his hand raised in two barnstorming bouts with Derek Chisora, former world champions Joseph Parker and Marcus Browne whilst also beating top contender Oscar Rivas.

Over recent years, Whyte is perhaps the most improved fighter in the whole heavyweight division with the Ring Magazine ranking him as the third best after champions Tyson Fury and Joshua. 

Tibbs deserves immense credit for the work he has done with Whyte, and will continue to have a big impact on British boxing with up-and-coming prospects such as Tom Baker and Sammy McNess.

Whyte and Povetkin are set to face off in the final installment of Matchroom Boxing’s Fight Camp, which kicks off with Sam Eggington versus Ted Cheeseman.
Meanwhile, Katie Taylor is also expected to defend her lightweight world titles against Delfine Persoon in a rematch from Madison Square Garden in 2019. The Irish superstar won via majority decision although many felt it could’ve easily swung in the Dane’s favour.
Elsewhere on the card, Martin Bakole and Sergey Kuzmin clash in a heavyweight 10-rounder and Luther Clay takes Chris Kongo for the WBO global welterweight title.

By Lewis Oldham, @LewisOldham99