In the ever-evolving world of boxing, there are moments when the sport’s future seems to be just as exciting as its present. Moses Itauma is one such young talent who has the boxing world buzzing with anticipation. A towering heavyweight with the power to match, Itauma has rapidly made a name for himself as one of the brightest prospects in the division. But for former cruiserweight champion Tony Bellew, while Itauma’s talent is undeniable, there’s a key comparison he finds both intriguing and concerning.

Speaking recently in an exclusive interview, Bellew made a bold comparison between Moses Itauma and heavyweight kingpin Oleksandr Usyk—a comparison that has raised some eyebrows, both for its audacity and the potential implications for Itauma’s career.

Moses Itauma: A Rising Star

At just 19 years old, Moses Itauma has already established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His record, which includes multiple knockouts and an undefeated streak, has positioned him as one of the most exciting prospects in the heavyweight division. What sets Itauma apart is his size (standing at 6’5″) combined with impressive technical boxing skills and natural athleticism. His fluidity and power in the ring have already earned him comparisons to some of the sport’s biggest names.

Itauma, under the guidance of trainer Ben Davison, has developed a well-rounded game that blends devastating knockout power with an intelligent and strategic approach to boxing. At such a young age, the potential is undeniable—but in boxing, potential is only the beginning. The real test comes when a fighter steps up to the elite level and faces the best in the world.

Oleksandr Usyk: The Heavyweight Maestro

Oleksandr Usyk, the reigning heavyweight champion, is known for his artistry in the ring. A former undisputed cruiserweight champion, Usyk made an incredible leap into the heavyweight division and quickly became a top contender. His unique combination of speed, footwork, and boxing IQ allows him to outclass larger opponents, something that has set him apart from the traditional heavyweight mold. Usyk’s recent victories over Anthony Joshua and other top heavyweights have cemented his status as one of the most technically skilled boxers in the sport.

For Bellew, Usyk’s style and skill set are a perfect example of what sets the best apart. Usyk isn’t just about power—he’s about precision, movement, and being 10 steps ahead of his opponent. His ability to dictate the pace, manage range, and control the center of the ring makes him a nightmare for any heavyweight.

Tony Bellew’s Bold Comparison: What Does It Mean for Itauma?

When asked about the future of Moses Itauma, Tony Bellew didn’t hold back. The former cruiserweight champion made a striking comparison between Itauma and Usyk, warning that while Itauma has all the tools to succeed, there’s one key element that might be missing:

“The only thing I worry about with Moses is that he’s not as fluid and as sharp as Usyk. Usyk is a once-in-a-generation talent, and although Moses is impressive, he doesn’t yet have that level of precision and movement. If Moses is going to succeed at the top level, he’ll need to sharpen those technical aspects of his game. But make no mistake—he has the potential to be a force.”

Bellew’s comment may seem harsh to some, but it’s based on a deep understanding of the nuances that make fighters great. While Itauma has the raw power and physical attributes to be a serious contender, Bellew’s concern lies in the finer details that make a champion like Usyk stand out. Usyk’s ability to outsmart his opponents with footwork and ring craft is one of the key reasons he has been so dominant, and Bellew is right to point out that Itauma’s game is still a work in progress.

The Key Differences: Power vs. Precision

One of the most glaring differences between Itauma and Usyk is their fighting styles. Itauma is known for his explosive knockout power, and while that can be a massive asset in the heavyweight division, it often means that his reliance on physical strength can sometimes overshadow the subtleties of boxing.

Usyk, in contrast, relies on his technical mastery. He outboxes opponents rather than overpowering them, making him a constant threat, even against the biggest heavyweights. Usyk’s speed, rhythm, and ability to control range are his superpowers—traits that Itauma is still developing as he faces stiffer competition.

Bellew’s warning is that Itauma might be riding high on his power, but as he steps into the ring with the sport’s elite, he will need to become more nuanced. Whether that comes from increased experience, better tactical awareness, or simply a better understanding of when to engage and when to move, Itauma’s technical growth will be crucial to his success.

The Path Forward for Moses Itauma

Despite the criticism, there’s no denying that Moses Itauma is on an incredible trajectory. His physical gifts, combined with his rapidly improving boxing IQ, make him one of the most exciting talents in the sport today. But if he is to fulfill his potential and reach the heights of Usyk, Tyson Fury, and Anthony Joshua, Itauma will need to develop beyond his current style.

Bellew’s comment serves as a reality check. Itauma cannot rely solely on his power—he must refine his ringcraft, improve his footwork, and develop a better understanding of how to break down opponents. There’s also the mental side of the game, as staying composed in high-pressure situations will be essential when facing the likes of Usyk and other top-tier heavyweights.

Usyk vs. Itauma: A Future Possibility?

While we may be years away from a potential showdown between Itauma and Usyk, the comparison has already begun to stir the imaginations of boxing fans. Could Itauma one day face Usyk in a battle for the heavyweight throne?

If Itauma continues his development trajectory and sharpens his technical skills, there’s no reason why this fight couldn’t become a reality. But if he doesn’t evolve, he may find himself exposed by more seasoned fighters, just as Usyk has done to countless challengers throughout his career.

In conclusion, Tony Bellew’s comparison of Moses Itauma to Oleksandr Usyk isn’t just about praising or criticizing a fighter—it’s a reminder of the standards that must be met if Itauma is to reach the top. While Itauma’s raw power and athleticism are undeniable, the true question is whether he can refine his craft to match the greatness of fighters like Usyk.

For now, the journey ahead for Moses Itauma will be one of self-improvement and evolution. The comparisons to Usyk are a reflection of his potential, but it’s up to Itauma to prove he can master the finer aspects of the sport and reach that level of greatness.