Duke McKenzie believes Moses Itauma has the talent to become a world champion, but says the 21-year-old may not yet be ready for every leading heavyweight in the division.
Itauma is preparing to face Filip Hrgovic for the vacant IBF heavyweight title later this month after mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez agreed to step aside. By accepting the IBF opportunity, Itauma has also given up his position as the WBO mandatory challenger.
That move means he is no longer in line for an immediate shot at the winner of Daniel Dubois vs. Fabio Wardley II, which is expected to take place before the end of the year. McKenzie believes avoiding Dubois for now may benefit the unbeaten prospect.
“Daniel Dubois is all wrong for Moses Itauma right now,” McKenzie said. He pointed to Dubois’ confidence, fitness, power and experience against elite heavyweights as major advantages.
McKenzie then identified WBC champion Agit Kabayel as another particularly difficult matchup. Kabayel has already proven himself at a high level and, in McKenzie’s view, has the style and experience to punish Itauma’s current lack of seasoning.
“I think that he is kryptonite for Moses Itauma right now,” McKenzie said. “I’m not saying that Moses isn’t an outstanding fighter, because he is. I just think that there are certain fighters that he doesn’t want to call out right now.”
McKenzie remains convinced Itauma will eventually win a world title, but believes he still needs more experience before facing the most established and battle-tested heavyweights.
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