George Groves Issues Bold Prediction on Moses Itauma's Heavyweight Prospects
Former world champion George Groves has delivered a striking assessment of rising British heavyweight Moses Itauma, suggesting the young fighter could overcome both Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury, but would likely fall short against unified champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Itauma's Dominant Victory Over Jermaine Franklin
Itauma, aged just 21, extended his unbeaten professional record to 14 fights with a commanding fifth-round knockout of American Jermaine Franklin in Manchester last weekend. The performance further cemented his reputation as one of boxing's most promising talents, with many tipping him for a world title shot before the year's end.
Groves provided his analysis in an interview with Fruity King, stating, "Itauma beats Joshua. He's just too quick, too sharp, too fast. Joshua's head has always been a little bit too static, he’d probably stop him." Regarding Fury, Groves added, "Tyson Fury in shape could probably negate Itauma for a couple of rounds, but he won't be dangerous. Itauma’s just too fresh, too sharp, I think he'll hurt him, possibly stop him."
Usyk Seen as the Ultimate Challenge
However, Groves cautioned that Usyk presents a different level of challenge. "The only guy in the world who I think beats Itauma right now is Oleksandr Usyk," he remarked. Itauma himself acknowledges the Ukrainian champion's status, noting, "Listen, Usyk has earned the right to do whatever he wants. There’s a pecking order that obviously I’ve got to respect."
The young Brit remains focused on his own path, expressing confidence in his abilities. "I don’t pay attention to any of that, I don’t really care what any of these other heavyweights think or feel. I know what the truth is and I know the ability that I’m capable of. Now I’ve got to go out there and show it," Itauma stated.
Itauma's Rapid Rise and Future Plans
Reflecting on his progress, Itauma highlighted his recent victories, including knockouts of Dillian Whyte, Demsey McKean, and now Jermaine Franklin. "I’ve just turned 21, I’ve got these knockouts under my belt. I always knew I could do this but I didn’t think it would be so soon," he said. "I’ve done what some other British heavyweights couldn’t do and they’ve gone on to achieve successful things. So what’s the limit for me?"
Currently ranked as the No.1 challenger in both the WBO and WBA heavyweight rankings, Itauma is under the guidance of promoter Frank Warren, who aims to secure a world title fight later this year. Warren plans to have Itauma back in the ring by July, with the fighter expressing interest in a bout against former IBF interim title challenger Filip Hrgovic.
Meanwhile, Usyk is scheduled to face former world kickboxing champion Rico Verhoeven at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt on May 23. In the British scene, Fabio Wardley, who shares trainer Ben Davison with Itauma and is also promoted by Warren, holds the WBO title and is set to defend it against Daniel Dubois on May 9.
