Moses Itauma Backed to Become Pound-for-Pound No. 1

The boxing world is buzzing with excitement as Moses Itauma, the 20-year-old heavyweight sensation, continues his extraordinary climb through the ranks. Prominent trainer Ben Davison has now made one of the boldest statements yet: that Itauma has the talent, mentality, and skillset to become the pound-for-pound No. 1 boxer in the world.

In a sport where heavyweights rarely claim that crown, Davison believes the UK may finally have a fighter capable of rewriting history. The confidence around Itauma is growing rapidly, and with every fight, he adds more weight to the belief that he could soon dominate the global stage.

Why Pound-for-Pound Recognition Matters

The pound-for-pound rankings in boxing are not about weight divisions. They are designed to measure the best fighters in the world based purely on ability, dominance, and achievements, regardless of their size. Historically, this list has been dominated by lighter fighters such as Floyd Mayweather Jr., Manny Pacquiao, and Canelo Álvarez, with rare heavyweights making the cut.

However, Oleksandr Usyk changed the conversation when he moved from cruiserweight to heavyweight and became a multiple-time undisputed champion. His dominance proved that a heavyweight could not only enter the pound-for-pound conversation but potentially lead it.

Ben Davison believes Itauma has the right mix of natural ability and determination to follow — and even surpass — that path.

Ben Davison’s Bold Prediction

Speaking on TalkSPORT, Davison explained his confidence in Itauma’s future:

“I don’t think this country has ever produced a pound-for-pound best boxer in the world. I think we have an opportunity to do that.”

For a trainer who has worked with world champions, including Tyson Fury, Davison’s praise carries enormous weight. His suggestion that Britain could produce its first pound-for-pound king through Itauma is not just a compliment — it’s a declaration of belief in a generational talent.

Moses Itauma’s Background and Early Promise

Born in 2004, Moses Itauma grew up with boxing in his blood. Even in his teenage years, his potential was impossible to ignore. He quickly rose through the amateur ranks, winning tournaments with ease and building a reputation as a fighter with the perfect blend of power, speed, and composure.

Turning professional at just 18 years old, Itauma wasted no time in proving his capabilities. His early fights showcased devastating knockout power and a calmness rarely seen in such a young fighter. Observers began comparing him to heavyweight greats before he had even fought beyond a few rounds.

The Landmark Victory Over Dillian Whyte

The moment Itauma truly announced himself to the world came in August 2025 when he faced veteran Dillian Whyte, a former world title challenger with vast experience. Many expected Whyte’s grit and ring IQ to pose problems for the youngster. Instead, Itauma shocked everyone with a first-round knockout victory that cemented him as one of the most feared prospects in the division.

That win didn’t just add another notch to his record — it redefined expectations. Beating Whyte so convincingly at such a young age suggested that Itauma is not simply a prospect but already a legitimate contender for world titles.

Comparing Itauma to Oleksandr Usyk

Currently, the heavyweight scene is ruled by Oleksandr Usyk, widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted boxers of all time. Usyk’s resume includes becoming undisputed at cruiserweight before conquering the heavyweight division, where he defeated Tyson Fury to unify the belts and later reclaimed the IBF title by stopping Daniel Dubois.

Yet, Davison believes Itauma has what it takes to dethrone Usyk.

“There is nobody else with a better chance of beating Oleksandr Usyk right now than Moses Itauma. That’s my true, honest feelings.”

Such a statement is monumental considering Usyk’s dominance. But Itauma’s combination of size, youth, and explosive power might be the antidote to Usyk’s technical mastery.

The Uniqueness of Itauma’s Style

What makes Itauma stand out is not just his power, but his intelligence inside the ring. Despite being only 20, he fights with the maturity of a seasoned professional. His footwork allows him to control distance effectively, while his jab sets up thunderous combinations.

He also possesses an uncanny calmness under pressure. Where many young fighters rush in search of knockouts, Itauma picks his moments carefully. This level of composure has impressed trainers, analysts, and fans alike.

Add to that his natural physical advantages — size, reach, and strength — and it’s clear why some are already predicting greatness.

The Role of Promoter Frank Warren

Promoter Frank Warren has been instrumental in guiding Itauma’s career. Known for developing world champions, Warren has promised that Itauma’s next fight, scheduled for December 2025, will be against a top 10 heavyweight.

This step is crucial. Beating a ranked contender will not only push Itauma closer to a world title shot but also prove that he belongs at the elite level. Each victory will add momentum to the idea that he could soon challenge for the biggest belts in boxing.

The British Heavyweight Legacy

Britain has produced outstanding heavyweights in the past — Lennox Lewis, Anthony Joshua, and Tyson Fury, to name a few. Yet, npound-for-pound No. 1 fighter in the world.

Lennox Lewis retired as the undisputed heavyweight champion and is considered one of the all-time greats, but pound-for-pound recognition often went to fighters in lighter divisions. Similarly, Joshua and Fury achieved massive success but never dominated in a way that earned them the universal top spot across all divisions.

If Itauma achieves what Davison predicts, he would not only elevate his own name but also carve out a historic first for British boxing.

Potential Roadblocks Ahead

While the hype is justified, the journey to pound-for-pound status will not be easy. The heavyweight division is stacked with talent, including names like Joseph Parker, Filip Hrgović, Zhilei Zhang, and rising American prospects.

Moreover, Usyk, though nearing the twilight of his career, remains a monumental challenge. And if Tyson Fury returns at full strength, Itauma could face the Gypsy King as well.

Still, every great fighter faces trials, and Itauma’s team appears confident that he has the mentality to overcome them.

The Global Impact of Itauma’s Rise

The rise of Moses Itauma isn’t just a story for British boxing — it’s a global narrative. Boxing fans worldwide are craving the next big superstar, someone who can transcend the sport and capture mainstream attention.

Itauma, with his youth, charisma, and knockout power, fits that description. Should he continue his rapid ascent, international audiences will be tuning in, and broadcasters will be eager to showcase his journey.

What’s Next for Moses Itauma?

The upcoming fight in December will be critical. Facing a top 10 opponent will test his skills against elite competition. A win would place him firmly on the path to a world title shot in 2026.

Should Itauma capture a world title at such a young age, comparisons with the greats will only intensify. And if he does manage to beat Oleksandr Usyk — or another reigning champion — the conversation around him as the pound-for-pound best will be unavoidable.

Final Thoughts: A Future Pound-for-Pound King?

Moses Itauma’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. In just a few short years, he has gone from a talented amateur to a professional fighter on the brink of greatness. With the backing of respected trainer Ben Davison and promoter Frank Warren, his path is being carefully managed for maximum success.

While it remains to be seen if he can truly reach the summit of the pound-for-pound rankings, one thing is clear: Moses Itauma has the tools, the drive, and the opportunities to make history. If he continues his current trajectory, boxing fans may soon witness the emergence of not just a heavyweight champion but the pound-for-pound No. 1 fighter in the world.