Hrgovic ready to surprise Itauma in London

Filip Hrgovic believes he can surprise Moses Itauma when they fight at London’s O2 Arena on August 29. He said he is not bothered by the excitement around his younger opponent, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

In a chat with DAZN before the match, the Croatian heavyweight mentioned that many in boxing do not see him winning this fight. But he is sure his experience will make a difference.

“I know the boxing world write me off in this fight, like he’s new Mike Tyson, young kid, young destroyer, but I believe in myself, and this is the biggest fight of my life, and it’s in the right moment. I’m just 34, a lot of experience, a lot of energy, a lot of power, a lot of everything. So, I’m happy with this fight, and I’ll beat him,” Hrgovic said.

He recognized Itauma’s skill but feels the young Briton has not faced the same challenges in his career. “They hype him a lot. He definitely got talent and big qualities, and he’s a big puncher and quick heavyweight, but definitely it’s much more, in my opinion, than he deserves,” he said.

When asked how his experience gives him an edge, Hrgovic explained that challenges in and out of the ring have changed him as a fighter.

“I’ve learned when it’s hard to don’t give up, to fight back and to endure everything on my way to the win. It makes you a stronger person, stronger will, and it just built me different than him. I feel like when he’s compared to my career, he’s got everything handed to him on the table, and it’s different,” he said.

Hrgovic also studied Itauma’s fights and shared how he plans to deal with his style.

“His feinting, it’s not going to work with me. I’m going to stick the jab in his face with that feinting down, down to the body. And if he comes with a left hand, I’m going back, boom, counter punch. Right hand, left hook, and then here and there I’m just going to miss on purpose with the right hand and come back with a left, sleeping,” he said.

The fight will also be for the vacant IBF world title. Itauma, who has won all 14 of his professional fights, stated that his drive to beat Hrgovic is strong, no matter the title on the line.