Former world champion Carl Froch believes a clash between Anthony Joshua and rising heavyweight Moses Itauma would only end one way, and it’s not in Joshua’s favor.
Froch didn’t hold back when discussing the potential matchup, pointing to what he sees as a clear psychological edge for the 21-year-old prospect. “Out of any of the heavyweight ex-champs, I think ‘AJ’ would be Itauma’s best pick to look good against,” Froch said. “I don’t think ‘AJ’ is the force he was.”
Joshua, now 36, has had a turbulent stretch. After losses to Oleksandr Usyk and a stoppage defeat to Daniel Dubois in 2024, he returned with a win over Jake Paul — but questions around his long-term future have remained, especially following personal tragedy and time away from the ring.
Froch believes those setbacks have taken a deeper toll. “Psychologically and mentally, he is not there anymore,” he said. “He’s been banjoed a few times… I don’t think his heart’s in the fight game anymore. So, it’s a bad fight for ‘AJ’.”
Meanwhile, Itauma continues to build momentum as one of the most talked-about young heavyweights in the sport. His next test comes against Jermaine Franklin on March 28 - a step up that could further position him for bigger names.
Still, Froch’s view leans heavily on trajectory: one fighter rising, the other trying to rediscover himself. “I think Itauma probably beats him,” he added.
Image Credit: DAZN