Rising British heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma has been cautioned against jumping into world title contention too soon. Despite his flawless 12-0 record and recent dominant win over Mike Balogun in May—where he secured the WBO Inter-Continental title with a second-round TKO—some in the boxing world urge patience.
Among them is WBA Intercontinental champion Dave Allen, who praised Itauma’s talent but questioned whether the 20-year-old is ready for elite-level opponents. “He’s the real deal,” Allen told talkSPORT, “but to go from his current opposition to someone like Joseph Parker would be irresponsible matchmaking.”
Allen emphasized Itauma’s explosive power—ten of his twelve wins have come via knockout—but noted that he has yet to be truly tested over the later rounds or under sustained pressure. “He hasn’t even boxed for a British title yet,” Allen said, suggesting Jermaine Franklin as an ideal next step for the young star.
Itauma, promoted by Frank Warren, was once tipped to challenge Mike Tyson’s record as the youngest heavyweight world champion. While he remains one of the division’s brightest prospects, voices like Allen’s are urging a more gradual climb. Itauma is expected to return to the ring on July 19, on the undercard of the Usyk–Dubois rematch.
