Moses Itauma meets Dillian Whyte in Riyadh on Saturday – coach Davison warns against premature knockout expectations.
Heavyweight hopeful Moses Itauma (12-0, 10 knockouts) faces his biggest challenge to date on Saturday in Riyadh: a clash against the experienced Dillian Whyte (31-3, 21 knockouts). The fight will take place at the ANB Arena as part of a DAZN PPV broadcast.
Itauma coach Ben Davison, who has already looked after stars such as Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua and Billy Joe Saunders, sees Whyte as a clear step up for his 20-year-old protégé – even if many fans are already expecting a quick knockout victory. “If any other heavyweight were to fight Whyte, nobody would say it would be a one- or two-round fight,” said Davison. “But if it does happen, Moses deserves credit for it – it’s a big name and a real test of character.”
Whyte brings almost 200 rounds of experience to the fight, while Itauma has only 25 so far. Nevertheless, the Slovakian-born southpaw, who grew up in Kent, is the clear favorite. In his last three fights, he has knocked down Mariusz Wach, Demsey McKean and Mike Balogun within two rounds of each other.
Davison emphasizes that Itauma has now developed a clear boxing identity and is ready for any fight situation. Although he would put his protégé “up against anyone”, the right choice of opponent at the right time is crucial. He also sees a duel with the undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk as appealing – “over six rounds I would back Moses, at twelve rounds experience is crucial”. Promoter Frank Warren wants to build Itauma up carefully. “Especially at heavyweight, a single hit can change everything,” warns Davison. “That’s why patience is required.”
Text by Robin Josten