London,
30 August 2026, London — Croatia’s Filip Hrgović produced a remarkable comeback to defeat British heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma by ninth-round TKO at The O2 Arena in London on Saturday night, capturing the vacant IBF heavyweight world championship.
The 21-year-old Itauma dominated the early stages with his speed and powerful combinations. He dropped Hrgović in the second round and appeared comfortably ahead as he repeatedly found the Croatian with heavy shots.
However, the experienced Hrgović survived the early punishment and remained composed. Itauma, who had never previously fought beyond six rounds as a professional, began to tire as the contest progressed.
The fight changed dramatically in the ninth round when Hrgović increased the pressure and landed a series of powerful punches. With an exhausted Itauma struggling to remain on his feet, his corner threw in the towel and the contest was stopped at 2 minutes 27 seconds of Round 9.
The victory makes Hrgović Croatia’s first heavyweight world champion, while Itauma suffers the first defeat of his professional career.
Hrgović said afterwards that Itauma was an exceptional fighter but needed more experience, describing the young Briton as “the future” of the heavyweight division.
The dramatic contest brought an extraordinary conclusion to a major night of boxing at London’s O2 Arena.
