Dave Allen has offered a fresh prediction for Moses Itauma vs Filip Hrgovic, this time expressing his belief that the showdown ends in double-quick fashion.
The two heavyweights will square off at London’s O2 Arena on August 29, with many expecting Itauma to encounter his toughest professional assignment thus far.
While yet to test himself at world level, the 21-year-old has shown signs of genuine world-class potential and looked particularly impressive against Jermaine Franklin, scoring a destructive fifth-round finish in March.
Hrgovic, however, is considered significantly more seasoned and accomplished than Franklin, who is known more for his durability than anything else.
Not only is Hrgovic a durable customer, too, but the Olympic bronze medallist boasts no shortage of amateur pedigree and professional experience.
The Croatian’s only professional defeat came against Daniel Dubois in June 2024, when he gave a spirited effort but was ultimately stopped in round eight.
Since then, he has scored points victories over Joe Joyce and David Adeleye and, most recently, dished out a punishing three-round beatdown against heavyweight veteran Allen last month.
Taking to social media, Allen insisted that Hrgovic is the “real deal” but believes that Itauma will make an almighty statement.
“I think it’s an amazing fight – you’ve got a proven world-class man against possibly the guy that’s going to be ‘the man’ for the next 15 years.
“Hrgovic is good – the real deal. He’s really good. But Itauma, I think, [is] too fast for him. Maybe too fast and too fresh. I think Itauma will win early.”
While Hrgovic is widely considered a top 10 heavyweight, it could be said that Itauma is more talented, and almost certainly has a higher ceiling, than his 34-year-old opponent.
