Filip Hrgovic secured a dramatic victory in London, halting Moses Itauma in the ninth round to capture the vacant IBF heavyweight title. The Croatian fighter, an Olympic bronze medallist whose only prior professional loss was against Daniel Dubois, demonstrated his experience by weathering a fierce early onslaught from his opponent. Hrgovic has now secured 15 of his 20 career wins by stoppage.
Itauma, 21, entered the bout as a heavy favourite, having dominated his first 14 professional opponents and earning a reputation as heavyweight boxing’s next superstar. He controlled the early stages of the contest and successfully scored a knockdown in the second round. However, his relentless pace eventually proved costly as he began to tire significantly in the later rounds.
As the fight progressed, Hrgovic capitalized on the Briton’s fatigue, increasing the pressure in the ninth round. With Itauma struggling to remain upright and appearing unsteady on his feet, his corner made the decision to throw in the towel. Following the stoppage, Itauma required medical attention and was removed from the arena on a stretcher.
Reflecting on the contest, Hrgovic noted that he observed his opponent tiring from the opening round. “He started fast. I knew he was going to gas out. I knew when my chance came I needed to push,” he explained. Despite the victory, the Croatian praised the young contender’s talent, stating, “He is the best I have been in the ring with, but he needs more experience. He is one of a kind.” Had Itauma won, he would have become the second-youngest world champion in the history of the heavyweight division. The report also notes that his legs unsteady and body swaying before slumping in the corner, his team threw in the towel, with Itauma barely able to stand.
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