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Filip Hrgovic defeats Moses Itauma in London to become heavyweight boxing champion

PUBLISHED Aug 30, 2026, 6:55 PM ET

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Filip Hrgovic became Croatia's first heavyweight world champion by stopping previously unbeaten British prodigy Moses Itauma in the ninth round at London's O2 Arena on Saturday [citation:1][citation:3]. The 34-year-old weathered an early storm, surviving a second-round knockdown and absorbing sustained punishment from the 21-year-old Itauma, who had never been beyond six rounds [citation:3][citation:10]. Hrgovic, an Olympic bronze medallist, capitalized as the younger fighter faded from his relentless pace, backing Itauma against the ropes in the ninth with a barrage that prompted his corner to throw in the towel [citation:1][citation:8]. Itauma required medical attention and left the arena on a stretcher but was later released from hospital [citation:8]. "I am the present. He is definitely the future," Hrgovic said [citation:1][citation:10]. He now faces mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez next, though Hrgovic has expressed interest in unification bouts against WBO champion Daniel Dubois or WBC title holder Agit Kabayel [citation:1][citation:5].

By Michael Grant | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On August 1 2016 Hrgovic won an Olympic bronze medal representing Croatia.
On January 1 2023 Itauma won his professional debut in 23 seconds.
On June 1 2024 Hrgovic's only loss came against Daniel Dubois by TKO.
On November 22 1986 Mike Tyson became youngest heavyweight champion at age 20.
On August 29 2026 Hrgovic wins IBF title with ninth-round TKO victory.
On August 29 2026 Itauma's corner throws towel to end the fight.
On August 29 2026 Itauma leaves O2 Arena on a stretcher.
On August 30 2026 Itauma is released from hospital after check-up.
On August 29 2026 Hrgovic states he wants unification fights next.
Hrgovic faces mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez next.
Itauma is expected to challenge for titles again.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: US boxing fans witness a stunning heavyweight title upset in London.
Possible long-term US impact: American contenders may target new Croatian champion Hrgovic.
Most affected groups: Heavyweight boxing division, UK boxing fans, Croatian sports community.
Reader priority: Verify fight highlights and champion's next opponent announcements.