Moses Itauma's next fight opponent ruled out despite brutal Mike Balogun KO
Boxing promoter Frank Warren has shut down a potential heavyweight dust-up between Martin Bakole and rising star Moses Itauma. On Saturday night the 20-year-old continued his stunning rise in boxing with a scintillating second-round knockout victory over ex-American football sensation Mike Balogun.
The British heavyweight prospect dropped Balogun three times in total as he extended his perfect record to 12-0. With ten of his 12 wins coming by way of knockout, many individuals within boxing are tipping the youngster to become a world champion in the very near future.
Fans and experts alike are eager to see the promising British heavyweight step into the ring with a top-level opponent next. Bakole, 31, has emerged as a fan-favourite pick for Itauma's next challenge.
The heavyweight boxer was beaten by Joseph Parker in February after stepping in on late notice and recently battled Efe Ajagba to a majority draw earlier this month in Saudi Arabia. Regardless of the chatter surrounding Bakole, Warren has clarified that he won't be matching up with the undefeated Brit.
Regarding Bakole as a possible next opponent for Itauma, Warren said to Queensberry Promotion's YouTube channel: "No! Bakole's got to be able to get himself in shape, the state of him, not happening." The Congolese boxer was ringside for Itauma's latest win and was quick to share his thoughts on the performance.
"Moses has got a beautiful career before him. I want him to build up his career," he remarked. "But big Martin Bakole, [right] now, I think it is too early for him. I want him to work hard and maybe be a world champion tomorrow. But I don't want him to pick me now because he'd be making a big mistake. He's playing with the fire. [But] he's a man. If he thinks he can handle me, I'm open to it."
Reflecting on his victory over Balogun in Glasgow, Itauma shared: "I appreciate Mike Balogun, he is one tough cookie. I couldn't believe he got up from the second one. Thanks to Mike Balogun for taking the fight, because nobody else would. I don't have to worry about doing rounds, but my team wants to see me in a 10-rounder. And then I want in with the big dogs."
In his short career so far, the British fighter has already appeared on two Tyson Fury undercards in Saudi Arabia, earning commendations from the 'Gypsy King' himself, and has delivered impeccable performances each time. His victories over opponents like Demsey McKean, Mariusz Wach, and Ilja Mezencev have led many to predict that he will soon clinch a world championship title and dominate the sport for years to come.
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