Moses Itauma continues to make significant waves in the heavyweight landscape, having extended his undefeated professional record since his notable stoppage of Demsey McKean. The British prospect, often drawing comparisons to a young Mike Tyson, has consistently demonstrated explosive power and an aggressive style, solidifying his position as one of boxing’s most compelling rising stars.
The 20-year-old heavyweight was indeed turning heads in the division, fresh off a stunning first-round knockout win over Demsey McKean on December 21, 2024, at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This victory improved his record at the time to 11-0 with nine knockouts. His explosive power and aggressive style have continually drawn comparisons to a young Mike Tyson, and his stock has never been higher. Itauma’s team had previously suggested the young star was gunning to become the youngest heavyweight world champion since Mike Tyson.
Moses Itauma’s Ascent and the Youngest Champion Pursuit
Since the initial report in early 2025, Moses Itauma has continued his impressive run, further building on his burgeoning reputation. After dispatching Demsey McKean, Itauma secured another decisive victory on May 24, 2025, knocking out Mike Balogun in the second round at The SSE Hydro in Glasgow. This was followed by a significant test on August 16, 2025, when he faced veteran Dillian Whyte in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Itauma once again showcased his destructive power, defeating Whyte by technical knockout in the first round and claiming the vacant Commonwealth heavyweight title. His most recent outing saw him go deeper into a fight, beating Jermaine Franklin by technical knockout in the fifth round on March 28, 2026, in Manchester, United Kingdom. Itauma’s current professional record stands at an unblemished 14 wins, 0 losses, with 12 of those victories coming by way of knockout.
Despite his continued success, the aspiration to become the youngest heavyweight world champion since Mike Tyson has now passed. Mike Tyson famously achieved this feat on November 22, 1986, at the age of 20 years, 4 months, and 22 days, by knocking out Trevor Berbick. Born on December 27, 2004, Itauma has now surpassed that age, meaning he can no longer break that specific record. Nevertheless, Itauma’s rapid progression and dominant performances, which earned him The Ring magazine’s Prospect of the Year award for 2024, indicate a fighter still very much on a trajectory towards world championship status, albeit without the “youngest ever” tag.
Former Champion Charles Martin’s Challenge
Amidst Itauma’s relentless march through the heavyweight ranks, an unexpected name had indeed stepped up to challenge him: former IBF heavyweight champion Charles Martin. Martin, a southpaw like Itauma, held the world title briefly in 2016 before losing it to Anthony Joshua. At 38 years old, Martin has a professional record of 30 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, with 27 knockouts. His career has been marked by both significant wins and tough losses against top-tier opponents.
Martin’s belief in his ability to defeat Itauma stemmed from his recent performances, particularly his bout against top contender Jared Anderson. Martin faced Anderson on July 1, 2023, losing by unanimous decision over ten rounds. Despite the loss, Martin emphasized the short notice for that fight. “I fought Jared Anderson on one week’s notice and had him hurt multiple times,” Martin said. “With a proper camp, I will knock Moses out.” Prior to his call-out of Itauma, Martin had secured a first-round knockout victory over Matthew McKinney in November 2024. However, since issuing the challenge, Martin has suffered another setback, losing to Efe Ajagba by technical knockout in the fourth round on February 15, 2026.
While Itauma has been steamrolling opponents, Martin wasn’t convinced he could handle a real test. “He’s been stopping everyone quick, but it’s real different when another puncher is coming back at you. Let’s see if he can take it as good as he gives it.” Promoter Frank Warren had expressed openness to the fight, stating, “I’m interested in all these fights with Moses. It’s part of his quest and his drive to win a world title.” Itauma himself acknowledged Martin’s challenge, remarking, “But if that doesn’t happen, I can give Charles Martin his old little whooping. He’s been talking a bit too much. Actually, way too much.” As of now, a fight between Moses Itauma and Charles Martin has not materialized.
The Evolving Heavyweight Landscape and Itauma’s Future
Justis Huni, another name mentioned as a potential world-title eliminator opponent, has also been active. His record now stands at 13 wins and 1 loss, with 7 knockouts. Huni secured TKO victories over Shaun Potgieter in January 2025 and Leandro Robutti in December 2024. His sole professional loss came against Fabio Wardley by knockout in the tenth round on June 7, 2025. Most recently, Huni bounced back with a majority decision win over Frazer Clarke on April 11, 2026. While a bout with Huni remains a possibility for Itauma, their paths have not yet converged.
For Moses Itauma, facing a former world champion like Charles Martin would have been a significant step, offering a chance to prove his mettle against an experienced fighter. For Martin, it was an opportunity to reassert himself in the heavyweight scene. While that particular fight has not materialized, Itauma’s recent victories over seasoned opponents like Dillian Whyte and Jermaine Franklin demonstrate his
