Young heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma, frequently dubbed “Britain’s Mike Tyson,” admits that although he’s confident in his skill set, he currently lacks the depth of experience to challenge Oleksandr Usyk at the highest level. Itauma sparked comparisons to Tyson after racing to an impressive undefeated record in 11 professional bouts, but he recently acknowledged on the talkBOXING podcast that the world-class Ukrainian champion would likely outlast him in a fight.
“I feel like I have a better skillset than [Usyk],” Itauma said. “But toward the later rounds, he would outdo me because I’ve never been in that sort of fight. This year is about getting me some rounds - that’s a big thing for us.” Itauma’s honesty underscores his awareness that moving too quickly to world level might jeopardize his enormous potential. Indeed, he plans to accumulate necessary ring time before considering a showdown with the reigning unified heavyweight king.
Saudi boxing chairman Turki Alalshikh has floated the possibility of pairing Itauma against Usyk, fueling speculation that the rising Briton could soon meet one of boxing’s pound-for-pound best. Still, Itauma insists on earning bigger tests step by step. “People can say, ‘You are going to fight that person,’ but it isn’t real until you’re actually in that ring,” he remarked, referencing his belief that hype alone does not ensure a contract or a confirmed date with the division’s elite.
Having already showced explosive power and a cool composure inside the ropes, Itauma is on the radar of major promoters. Yet he knows that refining his endurance, ring IQ, and ability to handle deep waters remain central to a future title run. Until he is satisfied those bases are covered, any talk of dethroning Usyk remains, in his words, “just dust.”
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Image Credit: Queensberry Promotions