Heavyweight contender Filip Hrgovic believes that British fighter Moses Itauma possesses the physical gifts to dominate the division for years, provided he can overcome the psychological toll of his recent defeat.
Hrgovic handed the young southpaw his first professional defeat in August at the O2 Arena, securing a ninth-round stoppage in their high-stakes bout. Entering the ring as the heavy favorite, Itauma had successfully built a 15-fight winning streak prior to the championship clash.
The early stages of the contest heavily favored the challenger, as Itauma utilized his exceptional speed and tactical awareness to dictate the pace. Hrgovic even found himself knocked down in the second round and later admitted that his opponent completely outclassed him during the opening chapters of the fight.
Reflecting on the bout, the Croatian veteran heaped praise on the natural attributes of the 21-year-old. Hrgovic noted that he had never previously shared a ring with an athlete who combined such tremendous physical stature with elite-level speed and ring intelligence.
The momentum shifted in the later rounds as fatigue set in for Itauma, allowing the experienced contender to capitalize and turn the tide. Hrgovic admitted that being outboxed in the early phases was a novel and frustrating experience after two decades in the sport.
Despite the decisive stoppage, Hrgovic views the setback as a defining moment for the young Briton's career rather than a permanent derailment. He emphasized that Itauma's vast talent remains undeniable, though repairing his competitive confidence will require immense psychological resilience.
According to the 34-year-old veteran, suffering such a stunning reversal on a major stage can profoundly affect an undefeated fighter's psyche. He explained that many athletes struggle to regain their footing after experiencing their first significant defeat in the spotlight.
The path back to championship contention demands immense physical and mental sacrifice, requiring fighters to endure grueling training camps to rebuild their confidence. Hrgovic observed that while his former opponent possessed all the necessary physical preparations for their meeting, the mental adjustment following a major loss presents a distinct challenge.
If Itauma manages to process the disappointment and rebuild his mindset, Hrgovic predicts a formidable future for the rising star. In that scenario, the Croatian fighter suggests it will prove extremely difficult for any opponent in the heavyweight division to overcome him.
Reporting based on coverage first published by BBC Sport. Read the original report at BBC Sport.
