Filip Hrgovic Stops Moses Itauma in Stunning Upset, Sends Young Briton to Hospital

Moses Itauma suffered a shocking defeat at London’s O2 Arena after Filip Hrgovic stopped the highly rated British heavyweight in the ninth round of a gruelling encounter.

Itauma, 21, entered the bout with enormous expectations, hoping to continue his rapid rise through the heavyweight division and move closer to a world title.

But his ambitions were derailed by the experienced Croatian, who weathered Itauma’s early dominance before taking control of the contest in the later rounds.

The fight was fiercely contested, with Itauma producing some impressive combinations and appearing to have the upper hand for long periods. However, the relentless pace eventually took its toll on the young southpaw.

In the ninth round, Itauma was caught by a series of heavy punches and appeared badly exhausted. His trainer, Ben Davison, threw in the towel to prevent further punishment, prompting the referee to wave off the contest.

Itauma was left slumped in a corner of the ring as Hrgovic celebrated his hard-fought victory. Medics quickly rushed to the Briton’s aid before carrying him out of the ring for further assessment.

Itauma was subsequently taken to hospital for examination and treatment.

His promoter, Frank Warren, later revealed that the fighter had suffered a possible leg injury, while also acknowledging the punishing pace of the bout.

“Moses has gone to hospital. He has done something to his leg,” Warren said.

“He did something to his leg and he was exhausted, is the truth of it. It was a very fast-paced fight.”

The defeat represents a major setback for Itauma, who had been widely regarded as one of the most exciting young prospects in the heavyweight division.

Having started the fight impressively, Itauma struggled as the contest progressed, with Hrgovic’s experience and physical strength eventually proving decisive.

Warren, however, believes the defeat can provide valuable lessons for the young heavyweight.

“He got caught and the fighting instinct was to stand there and let his shots go,” he said.

“That’s what it is at the top level. You have to tick all the boxes. He has got to learn from the fight and will hopefully do that.”

Despite the disappointment, Itauma’s age means he still has considerable time to rebuild his career. The defeat ended his immediate push towards heavyweight glory but could ultimately become an important learning experience.

For Hrgovic, meanwhile, the victory comes with an immediate obligation.

The Croatian had already been contractually required to make his first defence against Frank Sanchez, who had previously agreed to step aside.

Hrgovic also faced off with WBC champion Agit Kabayel following his victory, raising speculation about a potential unification clash.

However, Warren indicated that any such bout may have to wait.

“He has an obligation to fight Frank Sanchez as he stepped aside, so we will see what happens there,” Warren said.

“We will see if we can do something with Frank to make the unification in terms of step-aside.”