Filip Hrgović has pulled off a massive comeback to make Croatian boxing history.
The heavyweight defeated highly rated and previously undefeated British prospect Moses Itauma via ninth-round TKO at London’s O2 Arena, becoming Croatia’s first ever heavyweight world champion and capturing the vacant IBF heavyweight world title.
It was an incredible turnaround. Itauma’s speed and power gave problems, but the iron chin once again proved crucial. He absorbed some huge shots, stayed on his feet and continued to fight through the pressure.
The broadcast scorecards had him behind through the majority of the fight, but his experience began to show as the rounds went on. Rather than panic, he stayed composed, weathered Itauma’s attacks and continued to push forward as his younger opponent began to tire.
By the later rounds, the momentum had completely shifted. He began landing heavier and more frequently, overwhelming Itauma in the ninth round before his corner threw in the towel, completing one of the most remarkable comebacks in Croatian boxing history.
The biggest victory of his career and a historic moment for Croatian sports. A real-life Rocky moment.
Post-fight, he said he wants to fight in Croatia, and after a performance like this, he deserves the opportunity to defend his world title in front of a home crowd.
Make it happen!
Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit and Filip! You can’t be that trinity.
Jack Paul called him out
Anthony Joshua got $90m and Tyson got $20m when they fought him
Can Hrgovic put the belt on the line if he fights Jake Paul ? Not sure how those rules work
If he can put belt on the line, pay-day for Hrgovic $50-100+M
Even if no belt, probably $20-50M
Either way big pay-day coming his way
ZDS
The Croatian Homer Simpson! 😂
So happy for the guy. Honestly after his loss to Dubois I’d thought his chances of winning a major belt were over. Glad he was able to take advantage of the opportunity.
Hopefully they give him the rematch with Dubois. That’s probably the biggest money fight for him rn and he can try and avenge his loss.
Novi svjetski boksački prvak. Let’s go Hrgović. Bringing the belt back to the grad and selo.
A reminder that great heavy weight boxing matches are hard to beat. Amazing to watch. Hrgovic took it on the chin like real tough guy for many rounds, waited for his opponent to run out of steam, then smashed him in a round of pure wobbly last ditch desperate punches. Itauma was carried out on a stretcher. Man we are tough people. Great and fun boxing match.
He thanked Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit for the win.