WBC champion advises Itauma on comeback fight

British-Nigerian, Moses Itauma...Photo Credit: Dazn

Moses Itauma’s journey back to securing a world title shot should begin with a battle against Damian Knyba.

That’s the view of WBC champion Agit Kabayel, who was denied a potential unification fight against Itauma.

The 21-year-old was shockingly stopped by Filip Hrgovic in the ninth round of their world title clash last month.

British star Itauma dominated the bout at the O2 Arena and looked to be heading for his 11th consecutive knockout after Hrgovic’s gloves touched the canvas in the second round.

The judges’ scorecards showed Itauma well ahead after the opening eight rounds, but he was ultimately left requiring oxygen as he was taken from the ring on a stretcher.

Attention has now turned to who the Kent native could face next as he looks to rebuild his career following the first defeat of his professional career.

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For unbeaten Kabayel, Itauma should fight one of his former opponents — Knyba.

The Polish heavyweight has won 18 of his 19 professional bouts, with 11 victories coming by way of knockout.

His only defeat came against Kabayel when the two men fought for the interim WBC title in January.

Kabayel secured a third-round stoppage before being elevated from interim to full champion after Oleksandr Usyk vacated his WBC, WBA and IBF titles in June.

Knyba returned to winning ways earlier this month after outpointing former unified champion Andy Ruiz Jr in New Jersey.

Ruiz Jr., who famously stopped Anthony Joshua in June 2019 before losing the rematch, was left with a black eye following the brutal 12-round battle.

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