Eddie Hearn Gives Bitter Advice: Dillian Whyte Will Struggle Against Moses Itauma

In what is shaping up to be one of the most compelling heavyweight boxing matchups of 2025, veteran contender Dillian Whyte is set to collide with rising star Moses Itauma on August 16 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The bout will be a headliner on a stacked card that also features Nick Ball and Anto Cacace, but it’s the Itauma vs. Whyte clash that has the boxing world buzzing.

The match is especially significant as Whyte looks to prove he still belongs among the sport’s elite, while Itauma aims to solidify his position as the next great heavyweight.

Eddie Hearn Issues Stark Warning to Whyte

Veteran promoter Eddie Hearn didn’t mince words when speaking about the upcoming bout. In a recent interview, Hearn warned that the fight is “not an easy” task for Whyte, calling it a “nightmare stylistic matchup.”

“Good fight, great fight. I like it. The money is obviously fantastic, [Dillian] is at the end of his career,” said Hearn. “And I’m not saying he’s taking it just for the money, but Dillian is a game man. I’m sure he will think he will win that fight. But it’s tremendous matchmaking, and another huge night in Riyadh.”

“It’s just [lack of] activity. Dillian is a great heavyweight, very tough. Good luck to him. It’s not an easy fight. I think style-wise, and with Dillian’s activity, it’s a nightmare.”

Moses Itauma: The Next Mike Tyson?

Still only 20 years old, Moses Itauma (12-0, 10 KOs) has taken the boxing world by storm with his terrifying mix of power, speed, and ring IQ. With 10 knockouts from 12 wins, all within two rounds, Itauma is carving out a reputation for explosive finishes and ruthless efficiency.

Most recently, Itauma dismantled American veteran Mike Balogun in under four minutes, scoring three knockdowns before the referee stopped the carnage. The performance was another reminder that Itauma isn’t just a hype job—he’s the real deal.

Many have compared the southpaw to a young Mike Tyson, and with every emphatic win, those comparisons gain credibility. His compact build, destructive hooks, and savage aggression are reminiscent of the legendary heavyweight, making him a fan favorite and a potential superstar in the making.

Dillian Whyte: One Last Run?

At 37, Dillian Whyte (31-3, 21 KOs) is very much in the twilight of his career. Known as “The Body Snatcher,” Whyte has fought some of the best heavyweights of the era, including Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury, and Alexander Povetkin. Unfortunately for Whyte, he’s been knocked out in all three of those losses, each time succumbing to an uppercut—a punch that Itauma throws with vicious accuracy.

Whyte’s recent record is mixed. He was last seen stopping Ebenezer Tetteh in seven rounds in December 2024. Before that, he earned a win over Christian Hammer in March 2024. However, a planned fight against Joe Joyce was scrapped earlier this year due to injury.

He’s also had to battle controversies, including a positive drug test linked to a contaminated supplement, which kept him inactive for a period.

Clash of Eras: Youth vs. Experience

This fight is a textbook “youth vs. experience” matchup. While Whyte brings a depth of big-fight experience, he also carries wear and tear from a long career in one of the most punishing divisions in sport. On the other hand, Itauma is young, hungry, and seemingly improving with every bout.

Whyte may hold advantages in ring generalship and toughness, but his inactivity and aging reflexes could leave him vulnerable to Itauma’s explosive combinations early in the fight.

It’s a dangerous matchup for both men. For Whyte, a loss would likely signal the end of his title aspirations. For Itauma, this is the biggest name on his resume and his most dangerous opponent yet. A win here would catapult him into the world title conversation.

Saudi Arabia Continues to Dominate Boxing

The bout is scheduled to take place in Riyadh, further cementing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global boxing hub. Over the past year, Saudi Arabia has hosted multiple high-profile events, including Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk and Anthony Joshua’s comeback fights.

With its deep pockets and state-of-the-art venues, the Kingdom has successfully attracted boxing’s biggest names and promoters, making it a preferred destination for marquee fights.

The August 16 card also features:

• Nick Ball defending his WBA featherweight title against either Sam Goodman or Luis Nery

• Anto Cacace defending his IBO super-featherweight title against Raymond Ford

It’s a blockbuster card, and Itauma vs. Whyte will headline what promises to be another unforgettable night.

What’s at Stake for Itauma and Whyte

For Moses Itauma, this fight represents a career-defining moment. Beat Dillian Whyte and he cements his reputation as one of the best young heavyweights in the world. A win could even set up a shot at a world title in 2026.

A loss, however, would be a devastating derailment, especially given the momentum and hype surrounding him.

For Dillian Whyte, the stakes are perhaps even higher. A win would prove he still has something left in the tank and could potentially land him another big-money bout. A loss would confirm what many already believe—that his best days are behind him.

Expert Predictions: Who Has the Edge?

• Power: Itauma (10 KOs in 12 fights speaks volumes)

• Experience: Whyte (has fought the best in the world)

• Speed and reflexes: Itauma (young, explosive)

• Chin and durability: Slight edge to Whyte (has taken heavy shots, though vulnerable to uppercuts)

• Activity level: Itauma (has fought more consistently)

Most experts are tipping Itauma as the favorite, given his form, hunger, and skill set. However, underestimating a battle-tested veteran like Whyte could be a mistake.

If Whyte can survive the early rounds and drag the young lion into deep waters, he could make things interesting.

Fan Anticipation Building

The announcement has already sparked intense debate among fans. Is this a passing of the torch moment? Or can Whyte turn back the clock and silence the doubters?

Social media has exploded with predictions, highlight reels, and fan-made posters. The boxing community recognizes that this isn’t just another fight—it’s a statement.

Final Thoughts: A Can’t-Miss Heavyweight War

Whether you’re backing the seasoned warrior Dillian Whyte or the explosive phenom Moses Itauma, there’s no denying that this matchup is packed with drama, danger, and high stakes.

Both men are taking a risk. Itauma is stepping up against the most experienced opponent of his career, and Whyte is daring to test himself against the most dangerous young contender in the sport.

On August 16, the world will watch as two heavyweight forces collide in Riyadh. One will rise. One will fall. And boxing fans will be treated to another chapter in the ongoing Saudi revolution in combat sports.