Heavyweight Shock: Usyk snubs Joshua, Fury, backs unbeaten Itauma as next boxing king

Oleksandr Usyk has praised young heavyweight boxer Moses Itauma and suggested he could become the next undisputed champion in the division.

Usyk, who has defeated major names such as Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Daniel Dubois during his dominant run in the heavyweight category, was asked who he believes will take over the sport after his era.

Instead of naming more experienced fighters, he pointed to the rising British-Nigerian prospect.

He described Itauma as a very talented young fighter with a bright future ahead of him, noting his age and rapid development in professional boxing.

Oleksandr Usyk said: “Moses Itauma is a great fighter. He is young, about 20 years old, and I believe he has a big future.”

Moses Itauma has quickly become one of the most talked-about young heavyweights in boxing. He remains undefeated in 14 professional fights, with an impressive 12 victories coming by knockout, showing both power and skill at a very early stage of his career.

His rise has been fast and steady. He made headlines after becoming the first fighter to stop the durable Jermaine Franklin Jr, a performance that boosted his reputation significantly.

He currently holds regional titles under the WBA and WBO and is also highly ranked within both organisations, placing him among the top young contenders in the division.

What makes Itauma stand out is not just his record, but the level of confidence and maturity he displays inside the ring despite his age.

Many boxing analysts believe he is developing faster than expected for a heavyweight prospect.

Other major names in boxing have also shown belief in his potential. Tyson Fury previously praised him after sparring sessions, describing him as a future star of the heavyweight division.

Well-known promoter Frank Warren has also spoken highly of him, saying Itauma is one of the most gifted young heavyweights he has seen in many years.

Looking ahead, Itauma is expected to return to the ring soon, with discussions ongoing for a possible fight against Filip Hrgović at London’s O2 Arena.

The bout, if confirmed, would be another major step in his career progression and a chance to further prove his world-title potential.

Overall, Usyk’s endorsement adds to the growing belief in boxing circles that Moses Itauma could be a future world champion if he continues his current development and winning streak.