Moses Itauma takes on his toughest test yet this summer in Filip Hrgovic, and the 21-year-old has big plans to come if he wins.
In 14 professional contests, Itauma has won by knockout on 12 occasions and is yet to box beyond the sixth round – a run which has seen the British heavyweight phenomenon transition from prospect to world title contender. In Hrgovic, he faces a truly world-level and active contender, and will be, in the eyes of most, ready for a shot at a belt if he wins.
Currently, Itauma is positioned as the WBO mandatory challenger, meaning that he will be guaranteed a shot at Daniel Dubois’ heavyweight world title should he wish to pursue that route towards the throne.
Dubois will rematch Fabio Wardley this year following their thriller in May, and the mandatory will likely be called soon after. In an interview with Sky Sports, Itauma confirmed his interest in facing Dubois if he retains the belt in the rematch.
“I think next year it could happen, that would be good wouldn’t it?”
Itauma is also well placed with other sanctioning bodies, and he said he won’t shy away from facing Agit Kabayel for the WBC belt if Oleksandr Usyk is stripped or vacates.
“If Usyk doesn’t fight Kabayel and he relinquishes the title, I would not mind fighting Kabayel if I get past Hrgovic. It’s God’s timing. Maybe not this year but maybe next year.”
Before Itauma can make any selection, he must continue his unbeaten streak against Croatia’s Hrgovic on Saturday, August 29, as he headlines in London for the first time against his most skilled opponent to date.
