Moses Itauma continues to live up to the hype as he was able to add yet another finish to his resume on Saturday night.
Itauma made quick work of Dillian Whyte in their headline bout in Saudi Arabia, as the former Tyson Fury opponent could not make it to the second round.
The first-round knockout improved Itauma’s record to 13-0, in what was the 11th finish of his career.
Now a top contender in the heavyweight division, much conversation will be had regarding who the 20-year-old should face next. However, one of boxing’s most influential figures has one clear name in mind.
Turki Alalshikh wants to see Moses Itauma get crack at Oleksandr Usyk
Saudi Arabian advisor Turki Alalshikh is known for making some huge boxing fights in recent years.
Considered by many to be one of boxing’s most influential figures, many of the fights Alalshikh has strived for have come to fruition.
Although many fans feel as if Itauma may be too inexperienced for current unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, Alalshikh is not in agreement with this statement.
In a post on X by the Ring Magazine, the statement reads, “The Ring has learned that His Excellency Turki Alalshikh’s preference is to see Moses Itauma challenge Ring and Undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk next.”
The Ukrainian has not fought since his knockout win over Daniel Dubois last month, and is currently without a scheduled opponent.
Itauma said in his post-fight interview that heavyweight contenders Joseph Parker and Agit Kabayel were deserving of the opportunity to face Usyk, but wanted to be considered amongst them.
Oleksandr Usyk requested extension for Joseph Parker negotiations
Prior to the meeting between Itauma and Whyte, many labeled Parker as the clear next contender for the heavyweight title.
Parker asked Usyk himself for a title opportunity in July, with the WBO officially ordering a fight between the pair. However, the Ukrainian has not agreed a fight with the contender.
Despite not coming to an agreement at the time of writing, Usyk has requested an extension to his negotiation period for a potential Parker meeting.
Usyk’s request comes due to an injury he is currently dealing with, prohibiting from stepping back into the ring in the near future.
The Ukrainian’s extension has not been confirmed as of yet.