Filip Hrgovic Claims IBF Heavyweight Title as Moses Itauma Hospitalized

In a dramatic showdown at London's O2 Arena, Filip Hrgovic of Croatia secured the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) heavyweight title by defeating Britain's Moses Itauma via a ninth-round stoppage. Itauma, aiming to become the second-youngest heavyweight champion in history, initially dominated the early rounds but ultimately succumbed to exhaustion.

The bout turned grim in the ninth round when Itauma's trainer, Ben Davison, threw in the towel. Referee Howard Foster halted the contest as Itauma struggled, leading to his being stretchered out and taken to the hospital. Hrgovic, 34, noted the intensity of the fight, attributing his endurance to divine inspiration rather than mere physical strength.

“I felt the pace of the fight,” said Hrgovic. “I knew I was losing rounds, but I knew that I had that pace in my favour.” Despite Itauma's early success, including a standing eight count against Hrgovic in the second round, it became clear that experience played a crucial role as the fight progressed.

Looking ahead, Hrgovic expressed his desire to unify titles, targeting WBO champion Daniel Dubois and WBC title holder Agit Kabayel, both present at the event. “I want unification,” he stated, indicating his ambition for future bouts.

Source: www.aljazeera.com