British heavyweight boxer Dave Allen has suggested that rising boxing sensation Moses Itauma possesses the kind of speed and movement that could cause serious problems for Croatian heavyweight contender Filip Hrgović if the two fighters eventually meet in the ring.
Allen’s assessment comes in the wake of Hrgović’s dominant stoppage victory over him in Doncaster, a performance that further strengthened the Croatian fighter’s reputation as one of the most physically powerful and technically disciplined heavyweights in the division.
Despite being stopped in the third round, Allen offered a detailed reflection on both fighters, insisting that styles make fights and that Itauma’s attributes could present a very different challenge compared to the pressure-based, strength-heavy approach used by Hrgović.
According to Allen, the key factor that separates Itauma from many heavyweight contenders is his exceptional hand speed, sharp footwork, and ability to change angles quickly, which could potentially neutralize the forward pressure typically applied by Hrgović in his bouts.
Allen explained that in elite heavyweight boxing, raw power alone is not always enough to secure victory, especially when facing opponents who are capable of controlling distance and dictating rhythm through movement and timing.
He argued that if Itauma is allowed to operate at his preferred range, his combination punching and explosive speed could make it difficult for Hrgović to establish his usual aggressive fighting pattern.
The conversation around a potential clash between the two fighters has been growing within boxing circles, particularly as Moses Itauma continues to emerge as one of Britain’s most promising young heavyweight prospects.
Moses Itauma has rapidly gained attention in the professional ranks due to his explosive performances, high knockout rate, and composure beyond his years. At just 21 years old, he is already being positioned as a future world title contender, with many analysts closely monitoring his development.
His rise has been marked by a series of impressive victories that have highlighted his ability to overwhelm opponents early, using sharp combinations, fast reflexes, and intelligent ring movement to control fights from the opening bell.
On the other hand, Filip Hrgović remains one of the most established contenders in the heavyweight division. Known for his physical strength, durability, and consistent pressure, Hrgović brings a more traditional heavyweight style that relies on controlling opponents through sustained aggression and high punch output.
Hrgović’s recent victory over Allen reinforced his status as a serious contender within the division, demonstrating his ability to break down opponents through pressure and power punching. However, questions continue to be raised about how he would cope against faster, more elusive fighters who can disrupt his rhythm.
Allen’s comments reflect a broader debate within boxing about the matchup between speed and power in the heavyweight division. While Hrgović represents the traditional physically dominant heavyweight archetype, Itauma is seen as part of a new generation of fighters combining athleticism with refined technical skills.
The British boxer emphasized that heavyweight fights are often decided by timing and positioning rather than strength alone. In his view, Itauma’s ability to move in and out of range quickly could force Hrgović into uncomfortable exchanges where he may struggle to set his feet and land clean power shots.
Allen further noted that young fighters like Itauma often bring an unpredictable element to the ring, particularly when they are still developing and refining their style. This unpredictability, combined with speed and confidence, can create major challenges for more experienced opponents.
The potential bout has generated increasing interest among boxing fans and analysts, many of whom see it as a classic clash of styles. One side of the debate believes Hrgović’s experience and proven durability would eventually wear Itauma down, while the other argues that Itauma’s speed and athleticism could allow him to outmaneuver the Croatian fighter over the course of a fight.
In the broader context of the heavyweight division, both fighters are viewed as important figures in the next generation of elite contenders. A fight between them would not only serve as a major test for Itauma’s rapid rise but also provide Hrgović with an opportunity to further cement his position among world title challengers.
Promoters and boxing stakeholders are believed to be monitoring both fighters closely as they continue their respective careers. With Itauma’s profile rising quickly and Hrgović already established at elite level, the matchup is seen as a realistic future possibility.
For now, no official fight negotiations have been confirmed, but the growing discussion within the boxing community suggests that such a clash could eventually materialize if both fighters continue on their current trajectories.
Allen’s warning adds an additional layer of intrigue to the conversation, reinforcing the idea that speed may be the decisive factor if Itauma is matched against one of the division’s most physically dominant fighters.
As the heavyweight landscape continues to evolve, the potential meeting between Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgović remains one of the most compelling hypothetical matchups, offering a clear contrast between youthful speed and established power.
