British heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma has been handed a mandatory medical suspension following his ninth-round stoppage defeat to Filip Hrgovic in their heavyweight title fight at The O2 Arena.
The 21-year-old was unable to claim the vacant IBF heavyweight title and suffered the first defeat of his professional career.
Itauma stopped in the ninth round
Itauma started the fight strongly and controlled much of the early action, but the contest changed as fatigue began to affect him in the later rounds.
He struggled to stay on his feet before the referee stopped the bout in the ninth round. Itauma’s corner also threw in the towel, and he was taken from the ring on a stretcher before being transported to hospital for precautionary checks.
Itauma discharged from hospital
The heavyweight was discharged several hours later and later issued a positive update on his condition.
He acknowledged the defeat and praised Hrgovic for using his greater experience to take control of the fight.
Mandatory suspension confirmed
Under British Boxing Board of Control regulations, Itauma has now been placed under a mandatory medical suspension following the stoppage loss.
The restriction will keep him out of competition for at least 28 days and could be extended to 45 days.
No sparring during suspension
Itauma will also be prevented from sparring during the suspension period as he focuses on his recovery.
The measure is a standard medical safeguard following certain stoppage defeats and is intended to protect fighters before they return to training and competition.
Frank Warren remains confident in Itauma
Promoter Frank Warren has backed Itauma to recover from the setback and continue developing as a heavyweight contender.
Warren said the defeat could become an important learning experience for the young boxer, particularly when it comes to ring craft, pacing and managing longer fights.
First professional defeat could prove valuable
Warren also suggested that Itauma must become less focused on trying to knock out every opponent and instead develop a more complete approach inside the ring.
Despite the loss, he continues to regard Itauma as one of the most talented heavyweight prospects he has worked with.
Itauma vows to return
Itauma has already indicated that he intends to come back stronger after the defeat.
For now, his priority will be recovery and medical clearance before discussions begin over his next fight.
The loss to Filip Hrgovic represents a major setback, but it could also prove to be an important stage in the development of one of British boxing’s most highly rated young heavyweights.