Dave Allen is unwavering in his prediction for tonight’s IBF heavyweight championship clash between Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic at London’s O2 Arena, consistently backing Itauma for an early knockout victory.
The British boxer maintains his belief that the fight will not extend beyond three rounds, a stance he holds despite Filip Hrgovic’s lightest weigh-in since 2019. Itauma, the 21-year-old undefeated prospect (14-0, 12 KOs), faces the experienced 34-year-old Croatian, Hrgovic (20-1, 15 KOs), for the vacant IBF title.
Filip Hrgovic’s lighter weigh-in stirs discussion ahead of Dave Allen Itauma Hrgovic prediction
The stakes are immense for Itauma, who could become the second-youngest world heavyweight champion in history if he claims the belt tonight. The IBF title became available after Oleksandr Usyk relinquished it in June 2026, setting the stage for this pivotal bout in front of an estimated 20,000 fans, following escalating tensions at the weigh-ins where Itauma reportedly shoved Hrgovic, leading to a retaliatory slap.
The boxing world buzzed yesterday when Filip Hrgovic tipped the scales at just over 236lbs, his lightest fighting weight since 2019. This leaner presentation has sparked conversations among observers about how the heavyweight contest might unfold, with many suggesting Hrgovic is prepared for a strategic fight.
Dave Allen, who previously fought Hrgovic in 2024, maintains his steadfast belief that Itauma will secure a knockout win within three rounds. He consistently emphasized to talkSPORT, “I can’t see this fight going past three rounds. I think it’ll go really early.” Allen has also openly stated that Hrgovic is “underestimated, definitely,” recognizing the Croatian’s formidable capabilities.
Despite Hrgovic’s leaner physique, Allen’s conviction lies firmly in Itauma’s impressive speed and diverse punch variety. He believes that if Itauma connects cleanly, Hrgovic will “go over,” demonstrating his faith in the young Brit’s power, even against a fighter renowned for a strong chin and Olympic pedigree.
Itauma’s acid test against a veteran contender
Moses Itauma faces his toughest professional assignment yet against Filip Hrgovic, a veteran with significant experience and an Olympic bronze medal to his name. Itauma has rarely been tested deep into fights, finishing his 14 victories in a cumulative 31 rounds, which naturally raises questions about his endurance against a seasoned campaigner like Hrgovic.
While Dave Allen consistently backs Itauma to win quickly, he also acknowledges the considerable threat Hrgovic presents in this significant heavyweight bout. Allen has noted the Croatian is “underestimated, definitely,” highlighting the experience and resilience Hrgovic brings to the ring with his 20-1 record.
This contest represents an acid test for Itauma, who is widely favored to win. However, Hrgovic’s record and determination mean Itauma will need to bring his absolute best to claim the vacant IBF title, regardless of the fight’s duration or Hrgovic’s strategic approach.
The path to a world title shot
Moses Itauma, still just 21 years old, has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the heavyweight ranks. His unblemished 14-0 record, featuring an impressive 12 KOs, clearly showcases his explosive power, quick hand speed, and precise timing, which have overwhelmed previous opponents. He most recently stopped Jermaine Franklin Jr. in March and has recorded four consecutive TKO victories.
For Filip Hrgovic, this fight offers a clear path to redemption and a chance to return to the top tier of the division. The Croatian, an Olympic bronze medalist, boasts a strong 20-1 record with 15 KOs. His sole professional defeat occurred in 2024 against Daniel Dubois, a setback he quickly rebounded from with three straight victories over Joe Joyce, David Adeleye, and Dave Allen.
The IBF heavyweight title became vacant after Oleksandr Usyk relinquished it in June 2026, creating this significant opportunity. The winner of tonight’s contest will then face mandatory challenger Frank Sanchez in their initial defense. Sanchez, ranked first by the IBF and also a Queensberry fighter, earned his mandatory position with a second-round knockout of Richard Torrez in May.
London’s O2 Arena prepares for a historic night
The O2 Arena in London, capable of hosting approximately 20,000 for boxing events, is set to stage this pivotal heavyweight encounter. The main card is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM BST, with Itauma and Hrgovic expected to make their ring walks around 10:00 PM to 10:30 PM BST, marking the culmination of the evening’s action.
Should Moses Itauma secure a victory, he stands on the cusp of becoming the second-youngest world heavyweight champion in boxing history. This remarkable achievement would place him in an elite category, reminiscent of Mike Tyson’s decisive dethroning of Trevor Berbick in 1986. That long-standing record truly underscores the immense opportunity before Itauma.
The fight will be broadcast exclusively live on DAZN, accessible through their PPV option or for subscribers to DAZN Ultimate. In the UK, the PPV costs £24.99, while globally it is priced at $59.99 U.S. This pay-per-view model for an IBF title shot for Itauma has garnered significant attention, emphasizing the commercial value and anticipation surrounding this high-stakes bout.
Undercard heats up before main event
A compelling undercard is set to entertain the crowd before the main event, featuring several significant bouts. The action begins with the first bell at 5:00 PM BST, promising a full evening of boxing for fans, with coverage kicking off on DAZN.
- Sam Noakes vs. Denys Berinchyk: Expected ring walk at 9:30 PM BST.
- Nelson Hysa vs. Thomas Narmo: Expected ring walk at 8:40 PM BST.
- Christian Ursu vs. Ben Vaughan (for British and Commonwealth welterweight titles): Expected ring walk at 7:50 PM BST.
- Guido Vianello vs. Moses Jolly: Expected ring walk at 7:10 PM BST.
- Aloys Youmbi vs. Mike Perez: An earlier bout on the card, without a specific ring walk time provided.
These contests showcase a mix of established and rising talent, all vying for victory and building momentum for the night’s main attraction. Each fight plays a crucial role in the overall spectacle, ensuring engagement and excitement for those following the event from start to finish.
The heavyweight division: a new era?
The heavyweight division remains in a constant state of evolution, and the Itauma vs. Hrgovic fight could certainly usher in a new era. An Itauma victory would not only crown a remarkably young champion but also signal a significant generational shift at the pinnacle of the division. His rapid ascent and impressive skillset have already drawn considerable attention.
For Hrgovic, a win would firmly cement his position as a legitimate contender and a formidable force, demonstrating that his sole professional loss was just a minor setback. His extensive experience and proven resilience could prove crucial, especially if the fight extends beyond the early rounds.
The winner of this significant bout will undoubtedly influence the future title picture, potentially leading to future contests with other prominent heavyweights like Oleksandr Usyk or Tyson Fury.
