Moses Itauma Vows to Return Stronger After First Loss

On Saturday, August 30, 2023, British-Nigerian heavyweight boxer Moses Itauma faced his first professional defeat against Filip Hrgovic during an IBF world heavyweight title fight at London’s O2 Arena. Itauma, aged 21, was knocked out in the ninth round and subsequently taken to the hospital as a precaution.

He was discharged early Sunday morning and later addressed his defeat in an Instagram video, congratulating Hrgovic and expressing his intent to learn from the experience. Itauma controlled much of the fight until his energy levels dropped in the eighth round, allowing Hrgovic to take over and secure the knockout.

This loss ended Itauma's record of 14 wins and one loss and marked the first time he had fought beyond six rounds. Hrgovic acknowledged Itauma's talent but noted his lack of experience as a critical factor in the outcome.

Promoter Frank Warren mentioned that Itauma suffered a leg injury during the fight and emphasized the need for him to improve his ring craft. Tyson Fury downplayed the significance of the loss, stating that such occurrences are part of boxing.