Moses Itauma reflects on first professional boxing defeat and hospitalization
British heavyweight boxer Moses Itauma spoke out after his first professional loss and subsequent hospitalization following an IBF heavyweight title fight against Filip Hrgovic. The 21-year-old was taken to the hospital as a precaution after reportedly suffering from exhaustion during Saturday night's fight at London's O2 Arena, where Hrgovic stopped him in the ninth round. Itauma was discharged early Sunday and later posted a video message acknowledging the defeat. He congratulated Hrgovic and stated that despite not achieving his desired outcome, he gained valuable experience. Itauma thanked his fans, Queensberry, and DAZN. Reports indicate Itauma controlled much of the fight before his energy levels dropped in the eighth round, allowing Hrgovic to take over. This loss ends Itauma's unbeaten professional record, which now stands at 14 wins and one loss. His promoter, Frank Warren, is expected to manage his career rebuilding. Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury downplayed the significance of the defeat, noting that adversity is a natural part of boxing.
