Oleksandr Usyk and Moses Itauma are two of the most talked-about names in the heavyweight division despite being at very different stages of their careers.
Many believe Usyk has completed the sport and is the first ever man in history during the four-belt era to become a two-time undisputed champion in the banner division. He has also cleaned out cruiserweight and been undisputed there as well as winning a gold medal at the London 2012 Olympics before he left the amateur ranks.
Itauma is a new name in the scene who has risen to the top this year after 13 wins so far, 11 by KO, and nine inside the first round. Last time out, he beat the tough world-level contender Dillian White within two minutes.
After that performance, Usyk gave the 20-year-old his flowers and said they could clash in what would be a ‘great’ fight.
“Great man, great fight. I think Itauma is the future for boxing, I like this guy. Yeah definitely [He’s ready for me].”
He has now backtracked on that while speaking to Ready To Fight and suggested they won’t share a ring anytime soon.
“No, I won’t fight Itauma. He’s young – always teasing me. And he said himself he doesn’t hit grandpas.”
When pushed for details of his next contest, Usyk remained tight-lipped.
“I can’t say who exactly, because negotiations are ongoing. I’d be lying if I gave you a name.”
Usyk has already twice beaten Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois, so there are few challenges left out there for him, though Fabio Wardley recently confirmed his status as WBO mandatory with a win over Joseph Parker so that is one potential clash next year.
