Moses Itauma produced a devastating first-round knockout of Dillian Whyte in their all-British heavyweight contest in Riyadh, extending his perfect professional record to 13 fights. The 20-year-old from Chatham needed less than two minutes to send the 37-year-old former WBC interim champion sprawling to the canvas.
Whyte, who had delayed his ring walk, was immediately put under pressure by the southpaw, known for his sharp combinations. Itauma tested his opponent with a flurry of early jabs before a powerful right hook forced Whyte to the floor. Though Whyte managed to stagger back to his feet, the referee stepped in to wave off the contest with just over a minute remaining in the opening round.
The victory intensifies calls for Itauma, who was born in Slovakia, to be granted a world title shot in 2026. However, the young heavyweight played down the prospect of facing Oleksandr Usyk, the undisputed champion, stating that he does not yet believe he deserves such an opportunity.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live Sports Extra, Itauma said he had been drilling for the fight over the previous 12 to 13 weeks and had not wanted it to end so quickly. He indicated his next target could be the likes of Agit Kabayel or Joseph Parker, while adding that he planned to rest before returning to the gym.
