Moses Itauma, a 20-year-old British-born heavyweight boxer of Nigerian descent, is rapidly ascending the ranks of professional boxing, leaving a trail of defeated opponents and awestruck observers in his wake. His undefeated record of 11-0, punctuated by nine knockouts, speaks to a devastating combination of speed, power, and ring intelligence that has drawn comparisons to the legendary Mike Tyson. Itauma’s ambition is as formidable as his fighting style: he aims to shatter Tyson’s long-standing record as the youngest heavyweight world champion, a feat he intends to accomplish by May 19, 2025. This self-proclaimed "modern-day gladiator" embodies a raw intensity and unwavering focus, promising a thrilling spectacle every time he steps into the ring.
Itauma’s journey began in Kežmarok, Slovakia, where he was born to a Nigerian father and Slovakian mother. His childhood was marred by racial discrimination, an experience that ultimately led his family to relocate to Chatham, Kent, in search of a more tolerant environment. This early adversity, however, forged within him a resilience that he attributes to both his Nigerian and Slovakian heritage. He credits the "Slovak toughness and mentality" combined with the "physical strength" from his Nigerian roots for shaping his fighting spirit. This duality, reminiscent of another prominent British-Nigerian heavyweight, Anthony Joshua, forms a core part of Itauma’s identity and fuels his drive for success. Though christened Enriko, he fights under his middle name, Moses, a powerful moniker suggested by his promoter to amplify his presence and instill a sense of awe in his adversaries.
Itauma’s introduction to boxing at the age of nine, spurred by his older brother, was initially met with reluctance. He found the sport challenging and briefly diverted his attention to football before returning to the ring with renewed purpose. Inspired by the electrifying Prince Naseem Hamed, Itauma began to cultivate his own distinctive style, blending power with surprising agility. He amassed an impressive amateur record of 24-0, collecting gold medals at every level of competition. However, it was his transition to the professional arena that truly showcased his destructive potential. His early bouts were marked by swift and brutal knockouts, dismantling opponents in mere seconds.
Itauma’s ascent continued with increasingly impressive victories. Even in fights that went the distance, his dominance remained undeniable. A defining moment arrived in December 2024 when he faced world-rated contender Demsey McKean on the undercard of the Usyk-Fury rematch. McKean, who had previously gone the distance with the durable Filip Hrgovic, was overwhelmed by Itauma’s ferocious onslaught, succumbing in under two minutes. This victory solidified Itauma’s status as a force to be reckoned with in the heavyweight division. The resounding statement sent shockwaves through the boxing world, confirming the arrival of a truly special talent.
The boxing world has taken notice of Itauma’s rapid rise. Ben Davison, a renowned trainer who has worked with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua, has lauded Itauma’s potential, suggesting he possesses the tools to become one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. Even more significantly, Tyson Fury himself, after sparring with Itauma, acknowledged him as "the future of the heavyweight division" and refused to entertain the possibility of a future fight, deeming it a "stupid fight." This high praise from a champion who has faced virtually every top heavyweight of his era underscored Itauma’s extraordinary talent and potential. Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed heavyweight champion, has also recognized Itauma’s prowess, predicting a bright future for the young fighter.
For Nigerian boxing fans, Itauma represents the continuation of a growing legacy of heavyweight excellence, following in the footsteps of Anthony Joshua. While Joshua is known for his calculated and patient approach, Itauma brings a raw, Tyson-esque ferocity to the ring, a relentless aggression that seems destined for greatness. His potential to surpass Joshua and usher in a new era of Nigerian boxing dominance has ignited excitement and anticipation within the Nigerian sporting community. Itauma’s success resonates deeply within Nigeria, inspiring a new generation of aspiring boxers and solidifying the nation’s place on the global boxing stage.
Itauma currently holds the WBO Intercontinental heavyweight belt, which he secured with a second-round TKO victory. He has successfully defended the title twice and remains unwavering in his pursuit of a world championship. While acknowledging the political complexities of the sport, Itauma has expressed his willingness to face any opponent, including IBF champion Daniel Dubois. His determination to break Tyson’s record and claim a world title remains his primary focus, driven by an unwavering belief in his abilities and a refusal to be deterred by the challenges that lie ahead. With each victory, the question surrounding Moses Itauma shifts from if he will become a world champion to when. His combination of youth, skill, heritage, and destructive power makes him a formidable opponent for anyone in the heavyweight division. The boxing world watches with bated breath as this young titan continues his inexorable march toward the heavyweight throne.
