Former world heavyweight champion David Haye has backed British-Nigerian prospect Moses Itauma to beat Anthony Joshua if the pair ever meet in the ring.
Despite the clear difference in age and experience between the two fighters, Haye believes the 20-year-old rising star has what it takes to overcome the 36-year-old former two-time unified world champion.
Joshua, an Olympic gold medallist with 13 world title fights under his belt, has long been a dominant name in heavyweight boxing. In contrast, Itauma has been a professional for less than three years, boasting 13 bouts so far and yet to compete for a recognized title. Still, many boxing enthusiasts and pundits already see him as a future ruler of the division.
Speaking in an interview, Haye, famously nicknamed “The Hayemaker”, was asked whether Itauma could defeat Joshua today.
“Yeah, I think he beats everybody. The only person I’d say has the best chance of stopping him is Usyk,” Haye replied.
Haye, who once dominated the cruiserweight division before moving up to win the WBA heavyweight title, understands the pressure of carrying such high expectations at a young age.
Itauma is set to return to action on January 24 in Manchester, where he will face Jermaine Franklin, the American fighter who went 12 rounds with Joshua three months after Itauma made his professional debut.
As for Joshua, uncertainty surrounds his next move, with no confirmed date for his return after a 14-month hiatus. While a clash with Itauma seems unlikely for now, reports suggest the former champion could instead face YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, who is seeking a new opponent following the cancellation of his bout with Gervonta Davis.
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