Filip Hrgovic defeats Moses Itauma in London to become heavyweight boxing champion
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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].
Timeline
- 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.
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.































