ZAGREB — Newly crowned IBF heavyweight champion Filip Hrgovic has cast doubt on the future of Moses Itauma following his ninth-round stoppage victory over the 21-year-old prospect. Despite entering the bout as the underdog, Hrgovic capitalized on Itauma’s exhaustion to secure the win, effectively halting the momentum of the highly touted British heavyweight.
Reflecting on the contest, Hrgovic acknowledged Itauma’s significant natural ability while emphasizing the psychological toll of such a high-profile defeat. “He’s really good. He’s special. Very fast, very talented and he countered whatever I tried with his speed and timing,” Hrgovic told The Guardian. “It was a big shock for him, a big humiliation, so maybe it’s the end of his career if he’s not mentally tough.”
Hrgovic noted that while Itauma possesses the tools to become a force in the division, his recovery remains uncertain. “If he recovers from this loss, mentally, it will be hard for anyone to ever beat him again,” Hrgovic added. “It will be a hard journey for him to come back but if he recovers and he does not lose his confidence then, with this experience, I think no one will ever beat him again.”
While Itauma has reportedly requested a rematch, Hrgovic is currently moving toward a title defense against Cuba’s Frank Sanchez. Itauma is expected to return to the ring in early 2027.