Moses Itauma Seeking a Win-Win Scenario?
By: Eddie Sanchez
Moses Itauma (13-0, 11 KO) is preparing to return on December 13, headlining a Queensberry Promotions event at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, England.
The Ring’s 2024 Prospect of the Year will make his first appearance since his stunning first-round knockout victory over former interim titleholder Dillian Whyte on August 16. The performance convinced many that the 20-year-old, who has logged just 26 professional rounds, could challenge undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
“Is it my fault that I’ve spent only an hour in the ring? One of the things me and my team have stressed is getting rounds,” Itauma told shared. “But the reason why we would fight Usyk is there’s a win-win situation. If I go in there and win, I’m the heavyweight champion of the world. If God forbid I lose, I’ve just lost to Usyk, the champion of the world, and I’m 20 years old. So it’s a win-win situation.”
Itauma has only gone past the fifth round twice, with the rest of his fights ending in the first or second round. While his power is unquestionable, he still needs more top-level experience before testing himself against a champion like Usyk.
Promoter Frank Warren has emphasized patience in Itauma’s development, saying he does not want to rush the young heavyweight into dangerous territory. Warren has hinted at future matchups, possibly including a fight with former world champion Joseph Parker.
Parker is set to face Fabio Wardley (19-0-1, 18 KO), on October 25 at London’s O2 Arena in another Queensberry show streamed globally on DAZN.
As for Itauma’s December opponent, no official name has been confirmed, though Michael Hunter and David Adeleye are reportedly among the leading candidates.
Itauma is currently ranked No. 9 by The Ring, while the sanctioning bodies rate him even higher. He holds the No. 1 spot with both the WBA and WBO, is ranked No. 4 by the WBC, and No. 5 by the IBF.
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