Heavyweight Prodigy Moses Itauma Embraces the Spotlight on Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk Undercard
Moses Itauma, the 19-year-old heavyweight boxing sensation, is no stranger to the big stage. The rising star sauntered down the red carpet at Tuesday’s grand arrival event, exuding a confidence that belies his tender years.
While Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk are set to battle for the undisputed heavyweight championship this Saturday, Itauma, an 8-0 (6 KOs) professional with less than 18 months of experience, will be featured on the undercard. This marks the second time the young boxer has been part of a Saudi super card, and it’s clear that he’s not intimidated by the occasion.
“No, not really. I feel like if I look at it as, ‘Wow, I’m on a big stage’ it might be the last time I am on a big stage so I have to push it to the back of the room and then afterwards think, ‘Yeah, I’ve done something big,'” Itauma told Queensberry.
Despite his youth, Itauma has been sparring with some of the biggest names in heavyweight boxing, including Fury and two-time unified champion Anthony Joshua, who he trains with on a daily basis.
Should Itauma defeat Germany-based Kazakh Ilja Mezencev (25-3, 21 KOs) on Saturday, the southpaw will earn his first piece of hardware, a sure sign that his march towards world title contention has begun.
“Hopefully, it’s the first of many,” Itauma said. “I just want to be on big cards like this and big stages and win titles for my country, for my family and for everyone. Maybe I can put on a show that everyone will enjoy and think, ‘I saw him early in his career.'”
Itauma is well aware of the opportunity he has been presented and is determined to make the most of it.
“I’m blessed to be in the position I am. There are a lot of fighters around the world who don’t get the opportunity I’ve got so I’ve definitely grabbing it with both hands and doing my best to make the most of it.”
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