Itauma's Rise To Title Compared With Joshua's Early Run

Moses Itauma's rapid ascent through the heavyweight ranks has revived debate over whether his knockout streak and level of opposition match Anthony Joshua's early professional run before capturing a world title.

According to ESPN, both British heavyweights dominated with early stoppages, but the quality of opposition and paths taken differ significantly. Joshua turned professional after winning Olympic gold in 2012, while Itauma bypassed the amateur system entirely and signed with Matchroom as a teenager.

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Knockout Rates and Opposition Quality Under Scrutiny

Joshua racked up 16 consecutive knockouts to open his pro career, facing former world title challengers and regional belt holders on the way to his IBF title shot against Charles Martin in 2016. Itauma has stopped 11 straight opponents in under three rounds each, but questions persist over the calibre of those names.

The Slovakian heavyweight's résumé includes club-level journeymen and late replacements, a contrast to Joshua's schedule that featured Kevin Johnson, Dillian Whyte, and Gary Cornish before the Martin fight. Both routes accelerated toward championship opportunities, though Joshua's Olympic pedigree gave him immediate credibility with broadcasters and promoters.

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Itauma is expected to face a step-up test later this year as he chases eliminator position with the WBO or IBF, the same belts Joshua held during his initial title reign.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Moses Itauma or Anthony Joshua - most early KOs, tougher opponents, hardest route to title?