Tony Bellew says Moses Itauma isn't ready to fight Oleksandr Usyk yet. The former cruiserweight champion turned boxing analyst thinks the young heavyweight needs more experience before taking on the champ.
Itauma has got everyone talking. At just 20 years old, he's already racked up 12 fights with 10 knockouts. His last three fights ended in the first three rounds. He's beaten some good names too, like Mariusz Wach, Demsey McKean, and Mike Balogun.
Tyson Fury and Usyk have called Itauma the next big star in heavyweight boxing. But Bellew thinks he needs more time.
"He's not ready for Oleksandr Usyk in any way, shape or form. A man who has not been past six or seven rounds, is not ready in any way."
Bellew isn't all negative about Itauma though. He's impressed with the young fighter's skills.
"I don't think anyone else has that actual ability. What he lacks in experience, he makes up for in ability."
Itauma will get a chance to prove himself on August 16. He's set to fight Dillian Whyte, a tough, experienced boxer who's fought for world titles. Whyte has wins over Alexander Povetkin, Derek Chisora, and Joseph Parker.
Bellew thinks Itauma will win this fight inside five rounds. If he does, he could be on the fast track to a world title shot by 2026.
Right now, Usyk is the man to beat in the heavyweight division. He's been ordered to start talks with Joseph Parker for a mandatory title defense. But they haven't announced anything yet.
The heavyweight division needs new stars. Itauma could be that star. But for now, even his biggest fans think he needs more time before taking on the champ.
