Legendary boxing trainer: “I think Moses Itauma will probably knock out Anthony Joshua”

Legendary Trainer Compares Moses Itauma to Mike Tyson

When Teddy Atlas, one of boxing’s most respected voices, speaks, the sport listens. Known for his decades of experience as a trainer, commentator, and analyst, Atlas has never been afraid to give bold predictions. His latest comments about Britain’s heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma are already sending ripples through the boxing community.

The 69-year-old American trainer went as far as to compare the young fighter from Chatham, Kent to Mike Tyson, one of the most destructive heavyweights in history. Atlas also predicted that Itauma, despite being only 20 years old, could already be ready to defeat—and even knock out—former unified world champion Anthony Joshua.

For a prospect with fewer than 15 professional bouts, that kind of praise is monumental. But according to Atlas, Itauma is not just another hyped-up fighter. He believes the young heavyweight is something truly special.

Atlas: “It’s Not Too Premature to Compare Itauma to Tyson”

Speaking to Grosvenor Casino, Atlas gave a detailed breakdown of why he believes Moses Itauma belongs in the same conversation as Mike Tyson at a similar stage of their careers.

“It’s not too premature [to make a comparison] between Moses Itauma and Mike Tyson. Hear me clearly and distinctly, all of you. I have no hesitation to say what I believe in. And I believe that it is not premature to make comparisons. He is that sensational, his talent.”

According to Atlas, the key similarities lie in their blend of speed and power, a combination that made Tyson such a feared knockout artist. However, Atlas pointed out that Itauma’s style and physical dimensions set him apart from Iron Mike.

Where Tyson relied on the peek-a-boo defense, relentless pressure, and explosive counters, Itauma is taller, longer, and more versatile. He can fight coming forward, counterpunch off the back foot, and use his legs to circle opponents. Atlas argued this variety could ultimately give Itauma even more tools than Tyson possessed.

The Speed-Power Combination That Defines Elite Heavyweights

One of Atlas’s key observations was how Itauma combines speed with power, a rare trait in the heavyweight division.

“Either way, where they are as one is having that level of special talent,” Atlas explained. “They hit you, they hurt you. They have speed as a combination with power. It is one of the things that made Mike Tyson stand out, the combination of both speed and power. And Itauma looks to have that same combination.”

This assessment carries weight because Atlas has worked with legends like Mike Tyson, Michael Moorer, and Alexander Povetkin. When he highlights Itauma’s gifts, it’s more than just hype—it’s an expert eye identifying genuine potential.

Why Filip Hrgovic Could Be the Perfect Development Fight

While the boxing world immediately jumped on Atlas’s bold prediction about Itauma vs. Anthony Joshua, the trainer also offered a more measured suggestion for the next step in the young fighter’s career: Filip Hrgovic.

“Itauma needs someone who will take him some rounds and ask him some questions that need to be answered, not for us, for him,” Atlas explained. “He needs a guy like Hrgovic because he’s got a good chin, he’s a little too easy to hit sometimes, I get it, but he’s a big guy.”

According to Atlas, Hrgovic is durable, experienced, and powerful enough to test Itauma without being as dangerous as a fully prime Anthony Joshua or an elite champion like Oleksandr Usyk.

“I don’t think Hrgovic is that level of a puncher,” Atlas continued. “I’m not saying he can’t punch—anyone that big can deliver with force. But I don’t think he’s one of those special hit-you-on-top-of-the-head, fracture-your-ankle type punchers.”

This type of opponent, Atlas argued, would help Itauma develop the stamina, composure, and adaptability needed for championship-level fights.

The Bold Claim: Itauma Knocks Out Joshua

While Atlas acknowledged the risks of facing Anthony Joshua, he ultimately concluded that Moses Itauma would probably knock out the former unified heavyweight champion.

“I think Itauma will probably knock out Joshua,” Atlas stated. “Take nothing away from Joshua. There’s danger with the right hand, he can punch, he’s big, he’s experienced, all of that. He might be desperate now, Joshua, to get a win, to reclaim obviously things he’s lost—status, pride, whatever. I understand that can make him dangerous. But I believe the quick answer is yes, Itauma is ready for him and beyond.”

This is a striking assessment. Joshua, despite his setbacks, remains one of the biggest names in boxing and a legitimate top-level heavyweight. For Atlas to say that a 20-year-old prospect could beat him now speaks volumes about how highly he rates Itauma’s potential.

How Itauma Matches Up with Anthony Joshua

If such a fight were to happen, what would it look like?

• Physicality: At 6’4” with broad shoulders and natural athleticism, Itauma matches Joshua in size, though Joshua brings more muscle mass.

• Speed: Itauma’s hand speed and reflexes are sharper than Joshua’s, especially at close range.

• Power: While Joshua has proven one-punch knockout power, Itauma’s combination punching and speed could overwhelm him.

• Experience: This is Joshua’s biggest advantage. With over a decade at the top level, he’s faced champions like Wladimir Klitschko, Andy Ruiz Jr., and Oleksandr Usyk. Itauma lacks that résumé.

• Mental State: Atlas alluded to Joshua’s recent struggles with confidence and motivation, suggesting that desperation could either fuel or unravel him.

Stylistically, Itauma’s aggression, speed, and versatility could present Joshua with serious problems—especially if Joshua’s confidence wavers under pressure.

The Broader Context: Heavyweight Boxing in Transition

The heavyweight division is currently in flux. With Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk expected to wind down their careers in the next few years, a new generation of fighters is rising. Alongside names like Jared Anderson, Daniel Dubois, and Filip Hrgovic, Moses Itauma represents the future.

Atlas’s comments accelerate the conversation: is Itauma already ready for the very top, or should he continue to develop before taking on the division’s biggest names?

Moses Itauma’s Rapid Rise

Itauma’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric. From a decorated amateur career to turning professional as a teenager, he quickly established himself as a force in the heavyweight ranks. His first-round demolition of Dillian Whyte, a former world title challenger, showcased both his power and composure.

At just 20, he has already become a fan favorite in the UK. His charisma outside the ring, combined with his devastating performances inside it, have many calling him Britain’s next heavyweight superstar.

Why Atlas’s Words Matter

Teddy Atlas is not known for handing out compliments lightly. His career spans over four decades, and his eye for talent is widely respected. By placing Itauma in the same conversation as Mike Tyson and declaring that he could defeat Anthony Joshua, Atlas is essentially endorsing Itauma as a future world champion.

This kind of recognition could also increase pressure. Itauma and his promoter, Frank Warren, must now carefully balance matchmaking decisions to ensure his growth while capitalizing on the hype.

Conclusion: A Heavyweight Star in the Making

The boxing world thrives on bold statements, and Teddy Atlas has delivered one of the boldest in recent memory. His comparison of Moses Itauma to Mike Tyson, his suggestion of Filip Hrgovic as the perfect developmental test, and his prediction that Itauma would knock out Anthony Joshua all highlight the immense excitement surrounding this young British heavyweight.

While Itauma still has much to prove, one thing is clear: he has the raw tools, charisma, and mentality to become a global superstar in heavyweight boxing. With legends like Atlas already backing him, the future looks very bright indeed.