Itauma vs Hrgovic: Croatian questions British heavyweight’s rise in tense news conference

A win for Itauma could lead to an all-British world-title shot at Daniel Dubois next, if the WBO world champion wins a mooted rematch with Fabio Wardley.

Speaking to the 5 Live Boxing podcast earlier on Monday, Itauma said he is also targeting unified champion Oleksandr Usyk next, or a fight against German contender Agit Kabayel on away soil for a vacant title.

But first he must come through Hrgovic, a 2016 Olympic bronze medallist who has won 20 professional fights and most recently stopped Briton Dave Allen in the third round in May.

“It’s my toughest fight. Filip Hrgovic is no mug,” Itauma said.

“Hrgovic has achieved so much in this sport. He’s beaten so many well-known guys, not just in British boxing but boxing in general. He’s won an Olympic bronze medal.

“The beautiful thing about my position is I can strip him away from all of that.”

But Hrgovic, whose only defeat came against Dubois in 2024, was less complimentary of his opponent.

“I’m a fighter. I look at it from a different angle. I’ve never seen him in trouble. I’ve never seen him punched, get dropped,” he said.

“He’s definitely got speed and skills but to be a great fighter you must have hard will, chin and endurance.”

Billed as youth versus experience, the question of whether the pair respect each other was a theme throughout.

“Once that first punch lands, I’m sure he’ll respect me then,” Itauma said.

Despite the tension, Hrgovic and Itauma exchanged a handshake during a courteous face-off.