Trainer Compares Potential Usyk–Itauma Clash to Early Ali Opportunity

American trainer Stephen Edwards believes undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk should give 20-year-old British prospect Moses Itauma a chance.

“I know Itauma doesn’t have the résumé yet, but he has talent. I think he’s the most gifted among Usyk’s potential opponents. Talent can surpass experience if it’s truly special.

I would really love to see Itauma fight Usyk. I don’t care what others say. I recognize talent when I see it. I’m not saying Itauma can beat Usyk right now, but I am saying that this fight interests me.

I consider Usyk one of the greatest boxers of all time. I love everything about him. But I don’t agree with his view that Itauma isn’t ready.

If Itauma’s team puts him forward, then Usyk should prove in the ring that he isn’t ready — not say it outside the ring. If Itauma becomes a mandatory challenger for Usyk’s title, Usyk should respect the rankings and accept the challenge.

What if Sonny Liston had told a 22-year-old Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali), who was 19-0 at the time, that he wasn’t ready — and refused to give him a shot? Maybe we would’ve never found out how great Clay really was. He needed the opportunity to prove it.

I don’t personally know if Itauma is ready. But I’ll say this loudly and clearly: Itauma has the skillset — a jab, body punching, and fast reactions — to give Usyk a fight. Usyk might beat him, but it won’t be a walk in the park. Remember that,” said Edwards.

Earlier, Serhii Lapin, CEO of Team Usyk, shared his belief that Itauma is not yet ready for such a challenge. Moses Itauma (13-0, 11 KOs) was expected to return to the ring in December, but his next fight has since been postponed.