At just 19, Moses Itauma dominates boxing’s heavyweight scene with power and resilience.

Moses Itauma calls himself a “modern-day gladiator,” and his career in boxing is already proving the comparison true. At just 19 years old, the heavyweight sensation is tipped as the sport’s next big thing, and his record speaks volumes. With an explosive victory over Demsey McKean on 21 December—his 11th professional win, including nine knockouts—Itauma has captured the attention of the boxing world.

Under the dazzling lights of Saudi Arabia, on the undercard of Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk’s rematch, Itauma’s raw power and precision left fans stunned. It’s a long way from the modest beginnings of Kezmarok, Slovakia, where Itauma spent his early years. His mixed heritage—a Nigerian father and Slovak mother—has shaped both his identity and his relentless fighting spirit.

“It’s part of who I am,” he says from his gym in Essex, where he now trains. “Growing up in Slovakia, we stood out because we were the only African Slovak people. But that taught me resilience. I got the Slovak toughness and the physical strength from my Nigerian side. I’m proud of my roots.”

Despite his youth, Itauma has already shown he belongs in boxing’s most glamorous division. His amateur career was flawless, winning all 20 fights before turning professional in 2023. Now, just days before his 20th birthday on 28 December, Itauma is a rising force many believe could dominate the heavyweight landscape for years to come.

The fight against McKean showcased Itauma’s devastating power. He ended the bout within one round, reaffirming his potential as a future world champion. But beyond the knockouts and accolades, Itauma’s journey tells a story of determination and grit.

The icy winters of Kezmarok, he says, shaped his mental toughness. Moving to the UK added new layers to his identity, allowing him to embrace a more diverse environment while staying connected to his Slovakian and Nigerian heritage. Itauma’s unique background gives him a perspective that sets him apart in a sport known for its larger-than-life personalities.

“My life has been about adapting and fighting,” he reflects. “Whether it was in Slovakia or in the ring, I’ve learned to take on challenges head-on. When I step into the arena, I’m a gladiator. It’s just me and the fight.”

Training in Essex, Itauma has honed his skills under a team of experienced coaches, who praise his work ethic and maturity. For a teenager, Itauma displays remarkable composure and discipline—qualities that have already earned him comparisons to boxing legends.

His ambitions, however, go far beyond his early success. “I want to make history,” Itauma says with quiet confidence. “I want to be remembered as one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.”

As he prepares for his next fight, the boxing world is watching closely. Moses Itauma isn’t just a promising talent; he’s a phenomenon in the making. With his gladiatorial mindset, combined with a unique blend of physical power and cultural resilience, Itauma is poised to rewrite the future of heavyweight boxing.