Eddie Hearn says Frank Sanchez could test Moses Itauma in IBF bout

Eddie Hearn believes Frank Sanchez could provide Moses Itauma with a more difficult examination than Filip Hrgovic. Sanchez, the IBF’s number one contender, is expected to face the winner of the Hrgovic fight under the organisation’s current arrangement.

Hearn’s view is based on the Cuban’s movement, counterpunching and power. While Sanchez is officially 34, the same listed age as Hrgovic, Hearn regards his reflexes and style as significant threats to Itauma’s progress.

Sanchez carries a 26-1 record with 19 knockouts and most recently stopped Richard Torrez Jr in the second round on 23 May at the Pyramids of Giza. Torrez, a 2020 Olympic silver medallist, was caught while moving forward and was unable to recover from Sanchez’s power.

That victory underlined the type of challenge Sanchez could present. Rather than standing in front of Itauma and absorbing combinations, he can change distance, move laterally and wait for the younger heavyweight to overextend. His approach would require Itauma to reset before attacking again and defend against counters after missing.

Hrgovic is viewed as a more straightforward tactical opponent because of his upright stance and willingness to exchange at close range. Sanchez would ask different questions, particularly about Itauma’s ability to manage pace, respond to movement and remain composed against a puncher who can damage him with a single shot.

Itauma, 21, has not yet faced an opponent who has forced him to work through sustained pressure while making him think defensively. His previous opposition has been selected to suit his attacking strengths, with ageing heavyweights generally unable to match his combinations with sufficient movement or foot speed.

The IBF pathway leaves limited room for another interim contest. If Itauma defeats Hrgovic, he must face Sanchez within six months unless the organisation grants an exception. The winner of that route would therefore have to confront Sanchez next, creating a direct test of whether Itauma can solve a more mobile and counterpunching heavyweight.