Hrgovic sets conditions for second Itauma clash

IBF heavyweight champion Filip Hrgovic has said he will only grant Moses Itauma a rematch after he becomes the undisputed heavyweight world champion.

Hrgovic stopped Itauma in the ninth round on August 29 to win the vacant world title. The 34-year-old was the underdog, and his victory was one of the biggest upsets of the year in boxing.

Itauma, who had been tipped to become the second-youngest heavyweight world champion in history, dominated the early rounds and scored a knockdown, but tired badly before the stoppage.

The 21-year-old was unbeaten before the fight and has a record of 14-1 with 12 knockouts. He has made it clear that he wants a second fight with the Croatian.

Speaking to Ring Magazine, however, Hrgovic said no request had come his way and set out his terms.

• Joshua, Fury to share $200m purse
• Khan doubts Joshua tactics for Fury fight
• Ex-champ urges Joshua to hire Tyson for Fury fight

“No, (they) never (asked for a rematch with me). When I become undisputed (champion), I will give him a rematch,” Hrgovic said.

Hrgovic is due to make his first mandatory defence in early 2027. He is linked with a fight against Cuba’s Frank Sanchez, which would be the first heavyweight world title fight ever held in Croatia. Sanchez had earlier agreed to step aside to allow the vacant title fight with Itauma to take place.

Should he beat Sanchez, a unification rematch with Daniel Dubois appears to be the next target for Hrgovic. The winner is then expected to pursue WBC champion Agit Kabayel in a bid to hold three belts. The WBA super title will be on the line when Fury and Joshua meet in December.

Itauma, meanwhile, is expected to return to the ring in January. His promoter, Frank Warren, said “January’s looking like the date” and wants him to face a well-known opponent first. Warren said the opponent would be announced within a couple of weeks. He is also targeting at least three fights for Itauma in 2027, with a fourth possible.

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.