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Moses Itauma vows to return after Hrgovic ends world title dream

Posted : 31 August 2026

Moses Itauma has vowed to bounce back after suffering the first defeat of his professional career against Filip Hrgovic in their IBF heavyweight title fight at London’s O2 Arena.

The 21-year-old Briton was stopped in the ninth round after initially controlling much of the contest. Itauma had hoped to become the second-youngest heavyweight world champion in history behind Mike Tyson, but Hrgovic’s experience and durability proved decisive in the later stages.

Itauma started strongly, landing several clean combinations and forcing Hrgovic to take a standing eight count in the second round. The Croatian veteran absorbed the punishment and remained composed as Itauma maintained a high pace.

However, Itauma’s intensity eventually began to work against him. By the eighth round, both fighters appeared exhausted, but Hrgovic was able to maintain his strength while Itauma struggled to stay upright.

The fight was stopped in the ninth round after Itauma came under sustained pressure. His corner also threw in the towel, while the young heavyweight was subsequently taken from the ring on a stretcher for precautionary medical checks.

Hrgovic, 34, claimed the vacant IBF heavyweight championship with the victory, becoming Croatia’s first world heavyweight champion. The win also marked a remarkable comeback after he had trailed for much of the fight and faced significant pressure from the highly rated British prospect.

Despite the disappointment, Itauma remained positive after the fight. Following his hospital assessment, he congratulated Hrgovic and said the experience would help him develop as he continues his career.

The defeat ended Itauma’s unbeaten start after 14 victories from his first 14 professional fights. However, Hrgovic praised the youngster’s ability and suggested that he has the potential to become a world champion with more experience.

Itauma is now expected to rebuild his career following the setback, while Hrgovic begins his reign as IBF heavyweight champion.

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