Moses Itauma has admitted he is not always comfortable in the spotlight but is ready to embrace destiny in his IBF heavyweight title fight against Filip Hrgovic on August 29 at the O2 Arena.
The 21-year-old from Chatham can become the second-youngest world heavyweight champion of all-time behind Mike Tyson, with the vacant IBF belt on the line. Queensberry promoter Frank Warren this week called Itauma the hottest prospect in boxing.
Speaking to British media on Friday, Itauma said he had little reaction to the news that the fight would be for the world title. 'I was taking Hrgovic serious and now that the fight is for a world title, I am still taking it serious. It is still the same fight,' he said.
Itauma also responded to comments from Teddy Atlas, who trained Mike Tyson and believes Itauma is better than Tyson was at the same age. Itauma smiled: 'I am pretty sure Teddy Atlas put a gun to Mike Tyson's head before no? I just think he doesn't like Mike Tyson and is finding a way to dim his light.'
He acknowledged the challenge Hrgovic poses, saying: 'Of course he's a very good fighter. He's only had one defeat and he only lost because of the cut. Yeah, he's solid. I'm in for a long night but I'll be all right.'