The heavyweight clash between Dillian Whyte and Moses Itauma on August 16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia is one of great intrigue.
Whyte has fought at the top level, challenging once for world honours and facing both former and future champions at other stages. He has only lost to Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Alexander Povetkin, although he avenged the Povetkin defeat in a rematch.
Most recently, after proving his innocence following a failed drug test that was later put down to a contaminated supplement, Whyte has been building back with lower level wins. He is now under the tutelage of Buddy McGirt, but his most notable nights came alongside trainer Mark Tibbs.
Speaking to Pro Boxing Fans, ‘The Bodysnatcher’s former coach Tibbs broke down the Itauma fight.
“To be fair, I’m thinking, I had 11 fights with DIllian. He got to world number one, so I know Dillian really, really well. I don’t like that fight for him. I never thought he’d be a step up for someone. He won’t like me saying that. He’s done very well Dillian. He deserves a payday, and I hope he’s getting that.
“He’s got the experience to upset the apple cart, but Moses is a serious operator and the man can pick his punches well. Obviously, Moses is the favourite for me in that fight but I like to see someone like Dillian with that heart and mindset and that character. I like Dillian and if anyone can cause an upset with a coming through young gun, it’s Dillian Whyte.”
Itauma is only 20 and has had just 12 fights, but has won them all, 10 by KO, including his last three inside the first two rounds, which is why Fury and Oleksandr Usyk have both hailed him as the future of the division.
Most in the sport make the young man a heavy favourite.
