Moses Itauma has been named the WBO’s No. 1 heavyweight contender after a dominant knockout of Mike Balogun. According to Dev Sahni, Itauma’s rise in the rankings is drawing attention across boxing circles.
The 20-year-old southpaw began his 2024 campaign with a powerful performance, knocking Balogun down three times before the fight was stopped in under two rounds. Itauma, who holds a 12-0 record with 10 knockouts, defended his WBO Inter-Continental title—previously held by fighters such as Joseph Parker and Oleksandr Usyk.
WBO president Gustavo Olivieri praised Itauma’s skills and progress on social media, stating, “Moses has climbed the WBO rankings with talent, discipline, and electrifying performances. Now the #1 world-rated heavyweight contender, his moment is approaching.” This announcement confirms Itauma’s growing reputation as a rising heavyweight force.
Some fans questioned Itauma’s quick rise compared to other undefeated contenders like Justis Huni. Olivieri responded by noting that a potential fight between Itauma and Huni would bring “fireworks between two young lions” and promised Itauma would be ready for a future bout with unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.
Meanwhile, Joseph Parker, who holds the WBO interim heavyweight title, stepped aside to allow the Usyk-Dubois rematch to headline at Wembley Stadium. Parker won his interim title in March 2024 and recently scored a second-round stoppage over Martin Bakole in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Itauma’s rapid ascent places him in a strong position for a future heavyweight title shot, signaling an exciting new chapter in the division.
Article updated 6 days ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
