Oleksandr Usyk has proven himself to be the heavyweight standout of this era, but Moses Itauma has been tipped to dominate the next one. Now, Usyk has changed his mind on a showdown with the young Briton.
Despite being just 20-years-old, Itauma is believed by many boxing fans to be the most capable candidate when discussing which heavyweight hopeful could dethrone the Ukrainian.
The youngster has moved effortlessly through the levels, winning inside two rounds in his last nine contests and notably running through both Demsey McKean and Dillian Whyte in first-round victories within the last 12 months.
Speaking to BoxNation after Itauma’s most recent victory, against Whyte, Usyk admitted his belief that the Chatham-based southpaw is both the ‘future of boxing’ and ready to challenge for the heavyweight throne.
“[He is] a great man, a great fighter. I think that Itauma is the future for boxing, I like this guy. Yeah, [he is ready for me now], definitely.
However, in a Q&A with Ready to Fight, Usyk backtracked on those comments and said that he will not face the undefeated lefty, as he is too young.
“No, I won’t fight Itauma. He’s young — always teasing me. And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas. I can’t say who exactly [will be my next fight], because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name.”
Instead, Itauma will return to action on January 24, where he will be tasked with Michigan’s Jermaine Franklin; who lasted 12 rounds against Anthony Joshua in 2023 and lost a controversial majority decision to Dillian Whyte the year before.
