Moses Itauma has admitted that he would love the chance to face Oleksandr Usyk before the heavyweight champion retires, although he does not believe the fight is realistic right now.
Itauma continues to be viewed as one of the brightest young heavyweights in boxing following his rapid rise through the division. At just 21 years old, the British heavyweight has already drawn attention from several major names in the sport.
Meanwhile, Usyk has previously confirmed that he plans to retire after his final three fights, with the Ukrainian legend expected to end his career in 2027.
During a recent interview with talkSport Boxing, Itauma was asked whether he believes he could face Usyk before the heavyweight champion walks away from boxing.
Itauma says he would ‘love’ Usyk fight
Responding honestly, Itauma admitted he is not expecting the fight to happen despite wanting the opportunity.
“Honestly I don’t think it will happen but I would love it to happen,” Itauma said.
The reporter then suggested that a fight with Usyk could represent Itauma taking over the heavyweight division from the current champion.
“Take the torch yeah,” the reporter said.
Itauma welcomed the idea and expressed that he would immediately accept the opportunity if it became available.
“100% if I get the opportunity of course,” Itauma responded.
Itauma explains why Usyk fight may not happen
Despite his interest in the fight, Itauma also acknowledged why the matchup currently makes little sense from Usyk’s perspective.
“I just don’t think there’s no reason for him to [fight me],” Itauma admitted.
Moses Itauma believes Oleksandr Usyk will refuse to fight him 👀
— talkSPORT Boxing (@boxing_ts) May 9, 2026
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However, Itauma’s promoter Frank Warren appears far more confident about the possibility of the fight happening.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Warren admitted he would have no hesitation making the fight immediately.
“I fancy that fight. I’ll be honest with you, I fancy that fight right now,” Warren said.
“And I don’t rush anyone. If we could make that fight, I’d make that now.”
Frank Warren praises Itauma’s rapid rise
Warren also praised Itauma’s recent performances and highlighted the maturity the young heavyweight has already shown inside the ring.
“He was brilliant,” Warren said.
“His composure, his speed, his boxing brain, everything… the maturity he showed for such a young fighter is unbelievable.”
The veteran promoter also pointed toward Itauma’s unique offensive style.
“He’s got such fast hands and he gets shots from unconventional angles as well.”
Warren then made a major prediction regarding Itauma’s future.
“Provided he keeps winning, he will fight for the world title by the end of the year,” he said.
Meanwhile, Usyk remains focused on the final stretch of his legendary career, with the undefeated heavyweight champion still expected to pursue several major fights before retirement.
He is scheduled to defend his WBC heavyweight belt against Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt.
As for Itauma, he pulled the biggest career win in his most recent bout. He finished Jermaine Franklin Jr in the fifth round at the Co-op Live Arena, Manchester, in March.
