Filip Hrgovic wins IBF world heavyweight boxing title against Moses Itauma

Filip Hrgovic of Croatia won the vacant International Boxing Federation (IBF) world heavyweight title by defeating Britain's Moses Itauma via a ninth-round stoppage in a match held at the O2 Arena in London on August 29, 2026. Hrgovic became the first Croatian to achieve this title. Itauma, who aimed to become the second-youngest heavyweight world champion after Mike Tyson, initially performed well but was ultimately unable to continue after being carried from the ring on a stretcher and taken to the hospital. The fight marked Itauma's first experience beyond the sixth round, and he struggled against Hrgovic, who is noted for his resilience. Hrgovic's trainer, Ben Davison, threw in the towel in the ninth round, but referee Howard Foster had already stopped the fight in favor of Hrgovic. After the match, Hrgovic expressed admiration for Itauma, stating, "I’m the present, and he’s definitely [the] future. He’s an amazing fighter." Hrgovic also indicated his desire to unify the heavyweight titles, mentioning potential future opponents including WBO champion Daniel Dubois and WBC title holder Agit Kabayel, who were present at the event.