Why Lawrence Okolie Asserts: ‘Moses Itauma is the Real Threat, Not Dillian Whyte’

The British boxing world is buzzing as Moses Itauma vs. Dillian Whyte has officially been confirmed for August 16 in Saudi Arabia—a blockbuster all-British heavyweight clash that could reshape the division’s landscape. But what’s made the fight even more intriguing is a bold prediction from fellow heavyweight Lawrence Okolie, who has shared sparring rounds with both men.

In an interview with The Stomping Ground, Okolie made a stunning prediction: “Moses will KO him in quick fashion.” Short, sharp, and confidently delivered, Okolie’s statement has turned heads. It wasn’t just a casual comment—it came from a man who’s been in the ring with both contenders and knows firsthand how each one moves, hits, and reacts under pressure.

Itauma vs Whyte: Clash of Generations Set for August

The stage is set for an epic showdown between the rising prodigy Moses Itauma and veteran bruiser Dillian Whyte. Scheduled for August 16 in the boxing-rich setting of Saudi Arabia, the bout promises fireworks as youth clashes with experience.

Itauma, only 20 years old, is already being touted as one of the most promising talents in world boxing. With an unbeaten record of 12-0, including 11 knockouts, the southpaw phenom is blasting through his opposition with frightening efficiency. His most recent destruction of Mike Balogun in May was a showcase of raw power, blistering hand speed, and maturity beyond his years.

In contrast, Dillian Whyte, now 37, is a former title challenger with experience at the highest level, having gone to war with the likes of Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. However, recent years have seen his momentum stall due to injuries, canceled fights, and a decline in form.

This match-up, then, is more than a fight—it’s a passing of the torch moment, or at least that’s how Okolie and many pundits see it.

Lawrence Okolie’s Candid Breakdown

Known for his no-nonsense attitude, Lawrence “The Sauce” Okolie didn’t mince words when asked to give his thoughts on the bout. As someone who’s sparred with both Itauma and Whyte, Okolie brings a unique perspective that fans should pay attention to.

“Moses is on a great run, a good trajectory,” Okolie said. “So when they do fight, I think Moses will KO him in quick fashion, so yeah, good luck to him.”

What stands out in Okolie’s analysis is the conviction. This wasn’t just a polite nod of confidence—it was a clear warning to Whyte and a resounding endorsement of Itauma’s devastating abilities.

Okolie, who was reportedly eager to face Dillian Whyte himself in a long-rumored grudge match, may feel slighted that the opportunity slipped away. Talks of a showdown between the two heavyweights reportedly collapsed, leaving “The Sauce” on the outside looking in.

Now, Moses Itauma gets the opportunity, and Okolie seems to believe he’ll make the most of it.

Why Moses Itauma Is Touted as a Generational Talent

To understand the hype surrounding Moses Itauma, you have to look beyond the highlight reels. Yes, the knockouts are thunderous. Yes, his physique is imposing. But what truly sets Itauma apart is the way he combines youthful aggression with tactical discipline.

Despite being just 20, Itauma fights like a seasoned professional. His footwork, jab control, and punch selection are far ahead of his age group. Combine that with explosive finishing power, and you have a boxer many believe is destined to become world champion sooner rather than later.

His demolition job on Mike Balogun showed that he’s not just fighting journeymen. Itauma is climbing the ranks rapidly, and Whyte represents the first major name on his resume. It’s a step up—but one that many insiders, like Okolie, believe he’s more than ready for.

Whyte’s Road to Redemption

For Dillian Whyte, this fight is about redemption. After a turbulent period filled with inactivity, injuries, and setbacks, Whyte needs a statement win to regain his standing in the division. Once seen as a top-5 heavyweight with a feared left hook, Whyte has seen his stock fall after losses to Tyson Fury and a mixed 2024 campaign.

Whyte struggled in his last bout against Ebenezer Tetteh, a fight many believed he should have won easily. He was then scheduled to fight Joe Joyce, but the match fell through due to injury. Another comeback attempt was slated for the undercard of Fabio Wardley vs. Justis Huni, but again, the fight collapsed.

Now he faces a dangerous and undefeated opponent in Itauma—a situation that is as risky as it is rewarding. If he wins, Whyte silences the doubters and injects life back into his career. If he loses, especially by knockout, it could spell the end of his time as a top-tier heavyweight.

Dave Allen Joins Okolie in Itauma Support

Another voice chiming in on the upcoming showdown is heavyweight veteran Dave Allen, who echoed Okolie’s prediction. Allen, never one to hold back, offered this blunt take:

“My early prediction would be an Itauma stoppage, in a couple of rounds as well. It’s all about the timing,” Allen said. “Even the best Dillian Whyte would be a hard ask [for Moses] because Itauma is a real scary talent. They’re getting Whyte at the right time. He’s 37, not been in the ring for a long time. So I think Itauma will stop him pretty early.”

Allen’s comments are telling. The consensus from fighters who know the game intimately is that Itauma is the real deal, and Whyte may be catching him at the worst possible time.

Could Itauma Be the Future Face of British Heavyweight Boxing?

With Tyson Fury nearing the twilight of his career, Anthony Joshua’s form fluctuating, and Daniel Dubois rebuilding, many are looking for the next British heavyweight star. And Moses Itauma is emerging as a frontrunner.

If he defeats Whyte in convincing fashion, especially with a knockout, Itauma’s stock will skyrocket. A spectacular win could even lead to high-profile fights with names like Joe Joyce, Jared Anderson, Zhilei Zhang, or even a title eliminator in 2026.

At just 20, his upside is enormous. And with the backing of respected figures like Lawrence Okolie and Dave Allen, the belief in his potential is growing louder by the day.

What’s at Stake on August 16?

This is more than just a heavyweight bout—it’s a crossroads fight.

For Moses Itauma, it’s a chance to prove he belongs among the elite. A dominant win over Whyte would validate the hype and accelerate his journey toward world title contention.

For Dillian Whyte, it’s possibly a final stand. A win would re-establish his relevance and perhaps open doors for future big fights. A loss, particularly a knockout loss, could be a devastating blow to his legacy.

And for fans, it’s a thrilling collision of youth versus experience, speed versus grit, and future versus past.

Final Thoughts: Will Okolie Be Proven Right?

As the countdown to August 16 continues, the question remains: Will Lawrence Okolie’s bold prediction come true?

His belief in Moses Itauma’s power and precision is unwavering. Having sparred with both, he offers a rare insight—and if he’s right, we could be witnessing the birth of boxing’s next heavyweight superstar.

But Dillian Whyte is no pushover. He’s been in deep waters before and always comes swinging. If there’s one thing fans know, it’s that Whyte doesn’t go down without a fight.

Whatever happens, the eyes of the boxing world will be fixed on Saudi Arabia this August, waiting to see whether Moses Itauma announces himself with a bang—or whether the ‘Body Snatcher’ has one last brutal surprise up his sleeve.