Itauma 'humiliated' by IBF defeat but could 'never lose again', says Hrgovic
Filip Hrgovic says Moses Itauma’s ninth‑round stoppage at the O2 in August was a humiliating setback but believes the 21‑year‑old’s talent means he could become nearly unbeatable if he recovers mentally.
Filip Hrgovic, who stopped Moses Itauma in the ninth round at the O2 Arena in August, has warned the 21‑year‑old Briton faces a test of character after losing his IBF heavyweight title. Hrgovic, 34, said Itauma was a strong pre‑fight favourite and remains an exceptional talent — fast, big and highly skilled — but that the defeat was a humiliation which could derail the youngster unless he battles back mentally. Itauma has lost one of his 15 professional fights, Hrgovic added, and recovery from this loss will determine how far his career goes.
Hrgovic stopped Itauma in ninth after early drama
In their August meeting at the O2 Arena, Filip Hrgovic stopped Moses Itauma in the ninth round to claim victory in a contest in which Itauma had been the pre‑fight favourite. Hrgovic conceded he was outboxed early and even touched the canvas in the second round, but took advantage when Itauma tired. The defeat is the only loss in Itauma’s 15‑fight professional career to date, according to the reporting.
Hrgovic praises Itauma’s speed, IQ and skill
Hrgovic praised Itauma’s natural gifts, describing him as “really good” and “very fast, very talented”. He said Itauma countered Hrgovic’s attempts with speed and timing and was unlike other fast opponents because he is also big for a heavyweight. Hrgovic told reporters he had never been outboxed in his career before facing Itauma, underscoring the Croatian’s surprise at the Briton’s early performance.
‘Big humiliation’ could end or elevate Itauma’s career, Hrgovic warns
While Hrgovic acknowledged Itauma’s boxing ability, he warned the defeat was a severe psychological blow. “It was a big shock for him, a big humiliation,” Hrgovic said, adding that some fighters never recover mentally from that kind of loss. He argued that if Itauma can overcome the setback and rebuild his mental strength through demanding work, he could emerge harder to beat and possibly go on an exceptional run.
Hrgovic eyes unification as he reflects on the win
Alongside his comments on Itauma, Hrgovic said he aims to unify the heavyweight division. He praised Itauma while reminding everyone that the younger fighter’s future depends on how he responds to the loss: physical readiness, Hrgovic said, was not the issue—it was the mental recovery will determine whether Itauma returns to the top level.