Moses Itauma’s bid to become the second-youngest heavyweight world champion in boxing history ended in heartbreaking fashion after Filip Hrgovic staged a stunning ninth-round comeback at London’s O2 Arena.
The Nigerian-British heavyweight appeared on course for another spectacular knockout before fatigue allowed the Croatian to turn the fight on its head.
Itauma entered the bout unbeaten after 14 professional fights, with 12 victories coming by knockout, and immediately showed why he had been regarded as one of boxing’s brightest young prospects.
The 21-year-old controlled much of the opening eight rounds with his speed, power and sharp combinations, repeatedly finding Hrgovic’s head and body. He appeared close to forcing a stoppage after landing a barrage of heavy punches, while Hrgovic was also given a standing eight count earlier in the contest.
Itauma’s ambition was clear. Victory would have made him the second-youngest heavyweight world champion in history, behind legendary American boxer Mike Tyson. However, his relentless pace eventually came at a cost.
Having absorbed Itauma’s punishment for most of the fight, Hrgovic began to sense an opportunity as his younger opponent slowed. The Croatian turned the contest around in the ninth round, backing Itauma towards the ropes before unleashing a sustained barrage of punches.
Itauma struggled to respond as Hrgovic continued piling on the pressure, eventually forcing the referee to stop the contest after the Briton’s corner threw in the towel.
The victory saw Hrgovic claim the vacant IBF heavyweight title and become Croatia’s first heavyweight world champion.
The result was a devastating blow for Itauma, who had been widely regarded as one of the division’s biggest prospects.
Hrgovic, meanwhile, immediately set his sights on a unification fight with WBC champion Agit Kabayel. However, promoter Frank Warren quickly poured cold water on those plans, insisting that Hrgovic must first face Frank Sanchez.
For Itauma, the dream of matching Tyson’s record is over for now. But at just 21, the talented heavyweight still has plenty of time to rebuild his career and pursue world title glory.
