Oleksandr Usyk Didn’t Hesitate When Asked If Moses Itauma Is Ready To Face Him Now

The boxing world thrives on bold statements, surprise challenges, and the hunger of young fighters eager to test themselves against champions. Recently, Oleksandr Usyk, one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of this era, responded to rising star Moses Itauma’s call-out. Far from brushing aside the young heavyweight, Usyk gave a surprisingly respectful and confident answer: “Yeah definitely, he’s ready for me.”

This reaction has sparked excitement and debate among fans, pundits, and fighters. Could this be the next big heavyweight clash? Or is it still too early for the young powerhouse Itauma to step into the ring with a man of Usyk’s caliber?

Oleksandr Usyk’s Legacy in Heavyweight Boxing

From Cruiserweight Greatness to Heavyweight Dominance

Oleksandr Usyk is not just another world champion—he is a legend who has conquered two weight divisions. Starting as an undisputed cruiserweight king, Usyk transitioned to heavyweight, where many doubted his ability to handle bigger opponents. He proved the skeptics wrong, defeating Anthony Joshua twice and cementing himself as one of the most skillful heavyweights in modern boxing.

A Historic Achievement

In July, Usyk defeated Daniel Dubois for the second time, reclaiming the IBF belt and becoming the first-ever two-time undisputed heavyweight champion in the four-belt era. His victories showcase not only technical brilliance but also resilience, especially considering he was recovering from a back injury.

Usyk’s Mandatory Obligations and Future Plans

After reclaiming undisputed status, Usyk was lined up to face Joseph Parker as his WBO mandatory challenger. However, discussions around that fight have yet to begin, and uncertainty looms as the sanctioning bodies monitor his recovery from injury.

Meanwhile, other heavyweights like Fabio Wardley and Parker continue to circle around the title picture, waiting for opportunities should Usyk face delays. If Usyk fails to provide medical evidence of his back injury, there is even talk of him being stripped of one of his belts—a scenario fans and the Ukrainian champion surely want to avoid.

Who Is Moses Itauma?

The Young Heavyweight Sensation

At just 20 years old, Moses Itauma is already making serious noise in the heavyweight division. Known for his explosive power and aggression, Itauma has built an impressive record early in his professional career.

• 13 wins in his career so far.

• 10 victories by knockout, showing destructive finishing ability.

• A massive breakthrough moment in August, when he knocked out former world champion Dillian Whyte in under two minutes of the first round.

This victory turned heads across the boxing world and gave Itauma the platform to make a bold call-out. In the post-fight interview, he directly challenged Usyk, demanding the ultimate test against one of boxing’s finest.

Usyk’s Surprising Response

In a video shared by BoxNation, Usyk was asked whether Itauma is ready to face him. Instead of dismissing the idea as unrealistic, Usyk offered praise and encouragement:

“Great man, great fight. I think Itauma is the future for boxing, I like this guy. Yeah definitely [He’s ready for me].”

The statement carries weight. Usyk is known for his professionalism and respect toward opponents. His willingness to acknowledge Itauma as a legitimate contender reflects how highly he regards the young heavyweight’s potential.

Why Fans Are Divided on Itauma vs. Usyk

The possibility of Usyk vs. Itauma has ignited debates across boxing communities.

Arguments in Favor of the Fight

• Itauma’s power is undeniable. With his knockout record and recent demolition of Dillian Whyte, he has shown he belongs at a high level.

• Facing Usyk early could fast-track his career, even if he loses. Many great champions have sharpened their skills by fighting the best at a young age.

• Usyk himself respects Itauma, suggesting the fight would not be a mismatch.

Arguments Against the Fight

• At just 20, Itauma may not yet have the experience to handle Usyk’s technical brilliance.

• Usyk’s mastery of footwork, defense, and ring IQ could overwhelm a young, relatively untested challenger.

• Many believe Itauma should continue climbing the ranks gradually, taking on more seasoned contenders before challenging an undisputed champion.

Comparing Fighting Styles: Usyk vs. Itauma

Oleksandr Usyk

• Strengths: Footwork, ring intelligence, adaptability, stamina.

• Style: A southpaw master technician who uses angles and precision rather than raw power.

• Experience: Proven against elite heavyweights, including Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois.

Moses Itauma

• Strengths: Explosive power, youth, aggression, knockout ability.

• Style: Pressure fighter who overwhelms opponents early with speed and heavy punches.

• Experience: Limited compared to Usyk, but his rapid rise makes him one of the most exciting young fighters in the sport.

The contrast between Usyk’s finesse and Itauma’s raw power makes this a classic stylistic matchup.

The Role of Timing in Heavyweight Boxing

Timing is everything in boxing. For Itauma, challenging Usyk now might be both a blessing and a risk. Facing the best too soon could expose weaknesses, but it could also accelerate his growth and marketability.

For Usyk, a fight with Itauma might not bring the same financial draw as clashes with Parker or Tyson Fury, but it would cement his reputation as a champion willing to face anyone, regardless of experience.

What’s Next for Itauma?

Despite the hype, Itauma is expected to continue his journey with another fight later this year against a top contender. This will likely serve as another test of his skills before he moves into title contention.

If Itauma continues his streak of dominant knockouts, the calls for a showdown with Usyk will only grow louder.

What’s Next for Usyk?

Usyk’s immediate focus is on recovery and fulfilling his mandatory obligations. Whether it’s Joseph Parker or another top heavyweight, his next fight is likely to be a major event. However, the possibility of Itauma stepping into that spotlight cannot be ruled out, especially with Usyk openly praising the young challenger.

Conclusion

The prospect of Oleksandr Usyk vs. Moses Itauma is one of the most intriguing storylines in heavyweight boxing today. While many believe Itauma is too young and inexperienced to face a champion of Usyk’s caliber, the Ukrainian star himself has embraced the idea, describing Itauma as the “future of boxing.”

Whether or not the fight happens soon, one thing is clear: Itauma’s knockout victory over Dillian Whyte and Usyk’s respectful response have positioned the young fighter firmly in the global spotlight. As fans, we may soon witness a clash of generations—Usyk’s mastery against Itauma’s raw power—that could shape the future of heavyweight boxing.