Shock Defeat for Moses Itauma as Hrgović Stops Him at The O2

British heavyweight Moses Itauma suffered the first defeat of his professional career after being stopped by Croatia’s Filip Hrgović at London’s O2 Arena.

The referee ended the fight in the ninth round as Itauma struggled under a heavy attack from Hrgović, with his corner also throwing in the towel.

Itauma had entered the bout as the clear favourite, with many expecting the 21-year-old to secure another early victory.

The Kent-born fighter started brightly and controlled the opening rounds, but his aggressive start appeared to take a toll as the fight went on.

Hrgović absorbed Itauma’s best punches and continued to move forward, forcing the young Briton into unfamiliar territory.

Itauma went beyond the sixth round for the first time in his career and began to look increasingly exhausted.

After the stoppage, Itauma required oxygen before being taken from the arena on a stretcher.