Usik gave Hrgović a big motive: Here's what he said about his chances against Itaum

Ukrainian heavyweight boxer Oleksandr Usik has reignited the global boxing scene by stepping down from all his world titles just over a month ago, triggering a scramble among fighters vying for supremacy in the division. His decision has set off a chain reaction, reshaping the landscape of heavyweight championship boxing with several key contenders now in the spotlight. Usik's withdrawal created a vacuum that has led to a realignment of title holders across major organizations. The World Boxing Council (WBC) awarded its title to Agit Kabayel, while the World Boxing Association (WBA) passed its belt to Murat Gassiev, moves that have sparked controversy among fans and analysts alike. Meanwhile, Daniel Dubois emerged victorious in a bout against Fabrice Wardley earlier this May, securing the World Boxing Organization (WBO) title through a decisive win in the ring. However, the International Boxing Federation (IBF) still holds an open title, with Frank Sanchez initially positioned as the top challenger before Usik’s exit left him without a scheduled fight against the Ukrainian. The IBF title will soon see action as the organization announces its next contender on August 29. On that date, Croatian fighter Filip Hrgović and young British prospect Moses Itauma will enter the ring, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle for dominance in the heavyweight division. Promoters have hailed Itauma as one of the most promising talents since the era of Mike Tyson, adding further intrigue to the matchup. Usik, who has been vocal about his assessment of the current crop of heavyweights, expressed his views on Hrgović’s chances against Itauma. During a recent interview, he stated that while Hrgović presents a challenge, he does not believe the Croatian fighter poses a significant threat to Itauma. “Hrgović isn’t a big test, but he is a test,” Usik remarked. He added that Itauma is a special fighter and represents the future of the division. Usik also suggested that Itauma could potentially defeat Kabayel, reinforcing his belief in the Brit’s potential. Usik’s comments have stirred considerable debate within the boxing community. While some analysts agree with his assessment, others argue that Hrgović, despite being considered less formidable than Itauma, brings a unique blend of power and experience that should not be underestimated. The outcome of the upcoming match between Hrgović and Itauma will likely determine the direction of the title race moving forward. The situation has also prompted discussions about the broader implications of Usik’s decision to vacate his titles. With multiple organizations now having new champions, the path to unification has become more complex. Fighters such as Dubois, Kabayel, Gassiev, and now possibly Hrgović and Itauma, are all vying for recognition as the true champion of the division. This competition is expected to intensify in the coming months, with several high-profile bouts on the horizon. As the heavyweight division continues to evolve, the focus remains on the emerging stars and established names seeking to solidify their positions. The upcoming match between Hrgović and Itauma on August 29 will serve as a critical test for both fighters, offering insight into who might emerge as the dominant force in the absence of Usik. The results could influence the trajectory of the division and shape the narrative around the search for a unified champion.