The future of boxing’s heavyweight division was on full display earlier today (Sat., May 18, 2024) at Ring of Fire live on DAZN PPV in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, when 19-year-old phenom Moses Itauma delivered a memorable second-round TKO (punch).
This was expected to be a showcase matchup for Itauma — who came into this main card fight with just eight professional fights under his belt — and that’s exactly what it is. The massive betting favorite had his way early on against seasoned opponent, Ilja Mezencev, who had fought just last month in Germany.
In Round 2, Itauma kept piling on the offense and the second Mezencev searched for his own offense the young heavyweight was there for a brutal counter. He connected on a right hook over the top that immediately knocked Mezencev to the canvas. Mezencev returned to his feet a few moments later as the referee continued his count, but kept wobbling and clearly couldn’t continue.
Itauma was -4000 to secure a knockout finish in this fight, but his performance was still impressive. Check out the final moments below:
MOSES ITAUMA
WITH THE TKO VICTORY IN THE 2ND ROUND????
#Boxing #FuryUsyk— Danny (@dantheboxingman) May 18, 2024
Remember, Ring of Fire will be headlined by a historic heavyweight title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk to crown the first undisputed king of boxing for the first time in 25 years. That main event superfight is expected to begin around 5:30 p.m. ET (details HERE).
For complete Fury vs. Usyk results, coverage, and highlights click HERE.