Hrgovic Claims Itauma Spoon-Fed Before IBF Title Fight

Filip Hrgovic says Moses Itauma has been handed an easy route to their IBF heavyweight title fight.

Hrgovic, who faces the 20-year-old Itauma for the vacant strap, reportedly told ESPN that his opponent has been protected and sheltered during his rapid ascent through the division. The Croatian contender used the phrase "wrapped in cotton wool" to describe how Itauma's team has built his record, according to the report.

What Hrgovic's Comments Mean For The IBF Bout

The accusation could backfire. Itauma, who turned pro in 2023 and already sits on the cusp of a world title at just 20 years old, has stopped multiple veterans in brutal fashion. His team paired him with former cruiserweight world champion Demsey McKean in his last outing, a pairing that hardly screams protective matchmaking.

Hrgovic holds experience advantages — the 32-year-old went the distance with Daniel Dubois in a failed IBF title bid last June — but questioning Itauma's toughness before the opening bell is the sort of talk that tends to age poorly once the gloves come off.

The IBF title became vacant when Oleksandr Usyk relinquished the belt to pursue his rematch with Tyson Fury. No date has been announced for the Hrgovic-Itauma clash.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Moses Itauma spoon-fed, wrapped in cotton wool? Filip Hrgovic's claim may haunt him