However, Hrgovic accepted the offer and signed the agreement on Friday, clearing the way for one of the most anticipated heavyweight matchups of the year.

The fight for Itauma (14-0, 12 KOs) represents a major jump in competition. The 21-year-old southpaw has rapidly emerged as one of boxing’s most talked-about young heavyweights, but he has yet to face a proven contender with Hrgovic’s pedigree.

Hrgovic (20-1, 15 KOs) is a former Olympic bronze medalist whose only professional defeat came against Daniel Dubois in a world-title fight. Before that setback, he scored notable victories over contenders including Zhilei Zhang and Demsey McKean while spending years near the top of the heavyweight rankings.

The matchup gives Itauma an opportunity to answer questions about his readiness for world-level opposition. While he has stopped 12 of his 14 opponents and has rarely been extended, Hrgovic brings experience in championship-distance fights and has shared the ring with several established heavyweight contenders.

A victory for Itauma would strengthen his case as one of the leading young contenders in the division. For Hrgovic, a win would halt the prospect’s rise and place him back in the mix for another run at a world title opportunity.

Breaking: Per source involved, Filip Hrgovic, after initially turning down Aug. 29 to face Moses Itauma saying he didn’t want to fight so soon after Dave Allen fight, accepted it & signed Friday. 12 rounds at The O2 in London, DAZN PPV (or part of Ultimate Plan). #boxing

— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) June 19, 2026