Most expect Moses Itauma to become a world champion in the next year or so, placing him directly in the sights of another unbeaten heavyweight.
The 21-year-old comes off a fifth-round stoppage victory over Jermaine Franklin in March, exceeding many expectations as he ruthlessly dispatched the typically durable customer.
Prior to that, Itauma’s most notable wins had come against Dillian Whyte and Demsey McKean, with neither of them making it past the second round.
But still, for all of his talent and potential, the prolific knockout artist is yet to prove himself against a world-class opponent.
This could change in his next outing, though, when Itauma is set to headline a Queensberry Promotions card at London’s O2 Arena on August 8.
Potential options include Filip Hrgovic – that is, if he handily comes through Dave Allen on May 16 – and Murat Gassiev, who currently holds the WBA ‘regular’ title but could soon be elevated to full champion.
Another heavyweight who could meet Itauma further down the line, meanwhile, is two-time Olympic gold medallist Bakhodir Jalolov, who features on the Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois undercard this Saturday.
Speaking with Boxing News ahead of his encounter with Agron Smakici, the 31-year-old highlights Itauma as a possible opponent in the next two years.
“[Itauma is a] very talented guy; definitely one of the biggest prospects in heavyweight boxing right now.
“I believe, if I continue boxing in the UK – to [get] some fans – we will face each other in the next two years, probably.”
Jalolov – who has been hailed as a future champ by the likes of Bob Arum – then made it clear that his goal is to pick up a pro title, and is willing to face anyone to make it happen.
“Now my aim is to have all of the belts in the pro [ranks] … There is no exact name who [we know] will be the champion at the exact moment. Just give me him.”
Queensberry promoter Frank Warren has made no secret of his desire to accelerate Itauma’s progression, while also viewing Jalolov as a key piece in the heavyweight jigsaw.
