by croatiaweek
August 30, 2026
in
Filip Hrgović
Filip Hrgović has made history by becoming the first heavyweight world champion from Croatia, producing a dramatic comeback against Britain’s highly rated Moses Itauma in London.
The Croatian stopped the previously unbeaten 21-year-old in the ninth round at the O2 Arena after Itauma’s corner threw in the towel as the young heavyweight struggled to remain on his feet.
Itauma entered the contest as a strong favourite after winning his first 14 professional fights and establishing himself as one of boxing’s most promising young heavyweights. The vacant IBF heavyweight title was at stake, with victory potentially making Itauma the second-youngest world champion in the division’s history.
The opening rounds appeared to be going according to plan for the Briton. Itauma used his speed and combinations to trouble Hrgović and scored a knockdown in the second round. Hrgović, however, remained composed and absorbed the pressure. Itauma continued to throw at a high pace, but his output gradually began to take its toll.
The Croatian Olympic bronze medallist increasingly found success with his heavier punches as the fight progressed. Although Itauma remained ahead on the cards, signs of fatigue became increasingly evident.
Hrgović stepped up the pressure in the ninth round, landing a powerful right hand that sent Itauma stumbling backwards. The Briton managed to stay upright, but his legs appeared unsteady and he was unable to effectively defend himself.
With Itauma exhausted in his corner, his team ended the contest.
Relive the last 90 seconds of an absolute WAR 😤#MosesHrgovic 🤳 pic.twitter.com/YVdJChX1nV
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) August 29, 2026
For Hrgović, the victory represents the biggest achievement of his professional career. His only previous professional defeat came against fellow Briton Daniel Dubois.
“I knew when my chance came I needed to push. That is what I did,” Hrgović said after the fight, while praising Itauma’s ability and potential.
The Zagreb-born fighter entered the ring wearing Croatia’s distinctive red-and-white colours and leaves London with a landmark world title. The last time a Croatian challenged for a world heavyweight title was back in 1998, when Željko Mavrović fought Lennox Lewis for the WBC world heavyweight title but came up just short.