World Boxing Organisation president Gustavo Olivieri has declared Moses Itauma the new number one heavyweight contender following the British-Nigerian’s devastating second-round knockout of American Mike Balogun in Glasgow on Saturday night.
The unexpected announcement came via social media just an hour after the 20-year-old southpaw from Chatham successfully defended his WBO Inter-Continental title for the third time, extending his unbeaten record to 12-0 with his tenth stoppage victory.
Olivieri was clearly impressed by another clinical performance from The Ring’s Prospect of the Year for 2024, posting on social media, “Moses has climbed the WBO rankings with talent, discipline, and electrifying performances. Now the #1 world-rated heavyweight contender, his moment is approaching. It’s only a matter of time before he gets his shot & the world sees a new star emerge. #NewEra”
The announcement has elevated Itauma to the summit of the WBO rankings ahead of established names in the heavyweight division, a move that has caused considerable debate among boxing fans who believe the young fighter is receiving preferential treatment without the résumé to support such a lofty ranking.
Olivieri also suggested that Itauma would be ready in due course to face unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who is scheduled to rematch Itauma’s stablemate Daniel Dubois on 19th July at Wembley Stadium.
Saturday’s victory over Balogun was a statement of intent from Itauma after a frustrating five-month layoff, during which he claims to have been overlooked by several higher-profile opponents. The former NFL linebacker turned boxer proved durable, surviving two first-round knockdowns from thunderous left hands before succumbing to a clean lead right hook early in the second round.
