Croatian heavyweight contender Filip Hrgović has left his upcoming opponent, Moses Itauma, out of his top-five heavyweight rankings just days before their highly anticipated clash for the vacant IBF world title.
The pair are scheduled to meet at The O2 Arena in London on August 29, with the 34-year-old Hrgović seeking to use his experience to overcome the undefeated 21-year-old British prospect.
Speaking to DAZN ahead of the bout, Hrgović ranked Oleksandr Usyk as the best heavyweight in the world, followed by Daniel Dubois, Agit Kabayel, himself and former world champion Tyson Fury.
“Usyk has to be considered the leader that’s not even up for debate and behind him are Dubois, Kabayel, me, and Fury,” Hrgović said. “But I should say that I’m capable of beating any of them.”
The omission of Itauma is likely to add further intrigue to an already highly anticipated contest, with the Croatian appearing unwilling to place his younger opponent among the division’s elite despite Itauma’s unbeaten record.
Hrgović, who has a professional record of 20 wins and one defeat with 15 knockouts, has played down the growing hype surrounding Itauma ahead of their championship showdown.
Itauma has built a reputation as one of boxing’s most exciting young heavyweights, earning attention for his explosive knockout victories and unbeaten run. However, Hrgović believes the youngster has yet to face an opponent with the level of experience required to compete for a world championship.
The Croatian also dismissed comparisons between Itauma and former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, suggesting that the British prospect’s reputation has been amplified by the media.
Hrgović believes his greater experience, physical strength and time spent competing at the highest level could prove decisive when the two fighters meet in London.
Itauma, meanwhile, has an opportunity to make history if he defeats Hrgović and captures the vacant IBF heavyweight title.
At 21, the Chatham-born southpaw would become one of the youngest heavyweight world champions in boxing history, behind only Mike Tyson, who won his first heavyweight world title at the age of 20 in 1986.
The bout therefore represents a major crossroads for both fighters. Hrgović is looking to finally secure a world championship after years among the division’s leading contenders, while Itauma is attempting to announce himself as a genuine force at heavyweight.
With Hrgović relying on experience and Itauma bringing youth, speed and knockout power, their meeting at The O2 is shaping up as a significant test for both men.