Oleksandr Usyk has proven to be the heavyweight of this era, but Moses Itauma should dominate the next. Now, Usyk has changed his mind during a confrontation with the young Briton.
Despite being only 20 years old, Itauma is considered by many boxing fans to be the most capable candidate when it comes to which heavyweight prospect could dethrone the Ukrainian.
The youngster has flown through the levels effortlessly, winning in two rounds in his last nine matches and notably beating Demsey McKean and Dillian Whyte in first round victories over the past 12 months.
Speaking to BoxNation following Itauma’s most recent victory over Whyte, Usyk admitted his belief that the Chatham-based southpaw is both “the future of boxing” and ready to fight for the heavyweight throne.
“[He is] a great man, a great fighter. I think Itauma is the future of boxing, I like this guy. Yeah, [he is ready for me now]certainly.
However, during a Q&A with Ready to Fight, Usyk walked back those comments and said he would not face the undefeated southpaw because he is too young.
“No, I won’t fight Itauma. He’s young, he always teases me. And he said himself that he doesn’t hit his grandfathers. 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.
