“If I have a problem with you before a fight, and we have a fight, I’m going to have a problem with you after. Even if you say [it’s just business]. There’s certain boundaries I don’t cross. If Filip Hrgovic crosses too many, it’s like after the fight there’s none of that, ‘Ah, just because we had a fight. It was business.’ Nah,” Itauma told Queensberry.

When the interviewer asked if that meant there would be no hugs or handshakes afterward, Itauma gave a one-word response: “No.”

That changes the tone surrounding a contest carrying considerably more importance than Itauma’s previous bouts. He is moving directly into an IBF championship fight against an experienced opponent who has operated near the top of the division for years.

Hrgovic also represents a major physical test for Itauma. The Croatian has the size, durability and professional experience to force the younger fighter into situations he has rarely encountered.

Itauma has left Hrgovic with some room before their relationship becomes permanently hostile. Cross the boundaries he described, however, and Itauma has no interest in pretending everything was promotional business once the final bell sounds.