Dillian Whyte’s bout against rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma on August 16 was like a nightmare for the veteran boxer. The defeat was something like he’s never experienced before, and that’s exactly why it’s on everyone’s lips.
The 20-year-old knocked out Whyte in the first round, and it happened in under two minutes. That’s the fastest and most one-sided defeat of Whyte’s career. That’s why this immediately sparked retirement speculation.
But there’s no way this can be the end of his story, as it was just his fourth loss in his entire career. Whyte has delivered a pretty straight message to critics calling for him to hang up gloves.
Heading to Instagram shortly after the dust settled, he addressed his supporters with a surreal message that left no doubt about his future intentions. The British-Jamaican made it clear that his time to walk away had not come yet.
“This is not where my story ends. I may have lost this fight, but not the fire that built me,” Whyte posted. “Thank you to everyone who’s been standing by me through the highs and the lows. I’ll be back.”
It’s hard to stay soft after being destroyed by a fighter 17 years his junior. However, ‘‘The Body Snatcher’ has a record of defeating competitors who are far superior to him. Fans still remember how he dropped Joseph Parker with a granite chin. Since Whyte has vowed to come back strong, he will make it for sure.
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Meanwhile, Itauma has got an unimaginable boost to his résumé after defeating the 37-year-old so easily. Now, he has his eyes set on the world title.
Itauma Eyes World Title Path After Whyte Destruction
Moses Itauma is set for a December return, with manager Francis Warren confirming the WBO number one contender will fight in front of a British audience following his Riyadh debut. The spectacular victory over Whyte has positioned the 20-year-old as heavyweight boxing’s hottest prospect.
“He will fight again in December, the world is his oyster,” Warren’s son Francis told media. “What’s next? Watch this space. If a big opportunity presents itself, we will grab it.”
Warren also outlined several potential opponents for Itauma’s continued development. “I do love the Hrgovic fight. I think that’s a good fight for Moses to make that next step-up onto that world level,” he explained to talkSPORT.
The Croatian has spent years at world level and has a victory over Joe Joyce on his resume, presenting a very tough test for the 20-year-old. Other names under consideration include Agit Kabayel, Michael Hunter, Jared Anderson, and Kubrat Pulev.
Warren also confirmed that a world title shot could come within the next 12 months if the right opportunity presents itself. But to make sure it happens, Itauma must establish himself as a true title contender.
