Moses Itauma has defiantly vowed “I’ll be back” after his defeat to Filip Hrgovic in a spectacular heavyweight fight at the O2 in London.
Saturday night saw the pair compete for the vacant IBF title and they put on a classic with Hrgovic eventually sealing the victory thanks to a ninth round stoppage, with Itauma’s team throwing in the towel to prevent further damage to their man.
The 21-year-old had started superbly, taking full control in the early stages and knocking down his Croatian opponent in the second round. But slowly but surely, the 34-year-old grew into the contest, showing an iron chin and lasting power to grind down the younger man.
Itauma – who needed medical attention before leaving the arena on a stretcher – had been a heavy favourite heading into the fight given the fact he had easily disposed of all previous opponents since his debut in the paid ranks in early 2023.
And in front of a raucous crowd in London, Itauma made a perfect start. He came with intent, leading from the front foot with his southpaw stance. His speed was causing ample problems for Hrgovic and when a right hook early in the second round floored the older man, many sensed the writing was on the wall.
Filip Hrgovic defeats Moses Itauma via TKO in Round 9 to CLINCH the IBF Heavyweight Title #Boxing #ItaumaHrgovic pic.twitter.com/57LiJiX0M5
— Scott (@ScottishProbl) August 29, 2026
But Hrgovic is made of stern stuff and began to impose himself on the contest. Suddenly, Itauma was on the back foot and was notably struggling with heavy breathing.
Many had pointed out beforehand that Itauma had boxed just 26 professional rounds heading into this fight and questioned whether he had the stamina to go deep into contests. Those questions seemed plausible as the match went on, with Hrgovic now dictating the pace.
Itauma appeared to be grimacing as the rounds wore on whilst Hrgovic’s experience was on full show. Into the ninth the away fighter landed a booming right shot which sent Itauma almost through the ropes.
He stayed upright but his legs had clearly gone. Hrgovic then moved in for the kill and Itauma’s corner, sensibly, threw the towel in just as referee Howard Foster waded in to wave off the contest. In the aftermath of the bout, Itauma –who was released from hospital after having precautionary medical checks – took to social media insisting: “It wasn’t my night, we attempted greatness and just fell short to the more experienced man.
“I want to say congratulations to Filip Hrgovic on his win. And although I never reached my desired outcome, I believe I gained experience that I’ll take to my future fights. God bless, take care and I’ll be back.”
Hrgovic simply reflected: “He’s an amazing fighter. I am the present. He is definitely the future.”
