David Haye backs Moses Itauma after Hrgovic defeat to win world title

David Haye remains convinced Moses Itauma will become heavyweight world champion despite the 21-year-old being stopped by Filip Hrgovic in the ninth round. The defeat ended Itauma’s hopes of becoming boxing’s second-youngest heavyweight world champion.

Haye believes the loss could prove more valuable to Itauma’s development than a quick knockout victory would have been. The former heavyweight champion said the fight answered important questions about Itauma’s ability, including his defensive movement and his capacity to control the action over several rounds.

Itauma began strongly in his first main event in the British capital. His speed and movement allowed him to win early rounds while he looked for the finish, but Hrgovic absorbed the punches and remained standing. Once the fight became a test of endurance, the Croatian’s experience gave him the advantage and Itauma was eventually halted.

Haye identified pacing as the main issue for the young heavyweight. Itauma had shown that he could operate effectively for seven or eight rounds, but had not yet learned how to manage his energy across a longer contest. Haye’s assessment of Itauma’s talent, however, did not change after the defeat.

The former champion pointed to Itauma’s variety and the quality of his combinations as reasons for his confidence. Haye, who suffered an early-career defeat by Carl Thompson before becoming a world champion in two weight divisions, said he was completely certain Itauma would eventually claim the heavyweight championship.

Itauma has asked for another fight with Hrgovic after the stoppage. A rematch does not appear to be immediate, with Itauma expected to spend time away from competition while Hrgovic turns to a mandatory defence against Cuba’s Frank Sanchez. Hrgovic’s victory also made him Croatia’s first heavyweight world champion.