Matchroom and Queensbury in Talks for Moses Itauma vs. Justis Huni Showdown

Eddie Hearn has confirmed that discussions are underway for a potential clash between rising heavyweight stars Moses Itauma and Justis Huni. The talks involve Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing and Frank Warren’s Queensbury Promotions, which represents Itauma. Hearn described the matchup as a thrilling stylistic battle, highlighting the speed and athleticism of both fighters.

Hearn also suggested that the fight could eventually be for the WBO interim heavyweight title. The status of that belt remains uncertain, with current champion Joseph Parker set to face IBF titleholder Daniel Dubois on February 22. This indicates the title may soon become vacant, particularly if Parker loses to Dubois.

In the latest WBO rankings, Huni and Itauma sit at fifth and sixth, respectively.

Itauma (11-0), who just celebrated his 20th birthday, has quickly established himself as one of boxing’s hottest prospects. His reputation soared following a devastating first-round knockout of Huni’s compatriot Demsey McKean on the Usyk-Fury undercard in Riyadh last month.

Meanwhile, Huni (11-0), at 25 years old, is preparing for his next bout against Shaun Potgieter this Wednesday on the undercard of Jai Opetaia vs. David Nyika in Queensland, Australia.

Speaking to Charlie Parsons on The Stomping Ground YouTube channel, Hearn acknowledged that Huni’s upcoming fight is his third consecutive step-back in competition following a close call against Kevin Lerena in March 2024. Despite controlling much of the fight, Huni was badly hurt in the final round and narrowly survived the bell to claim victory.

Hearn explained that he and Huni’s management, led by Mick Francis, decided to temporarily ease the Australian’s level of opposition. “I just felt there was a collective decision to take a step back,” Hearn said. “Here’s a young heavyweight with immense talent and a bright future. Let’s take our time and build him properly.”

Since the Lerena fight, Huni has secured two second-round stoppages against lesser-known opponents—Troy Pilcher and Leandro Daniel Robutti—in the second half of 2024.

Hearn is optimistic about Huni’s development, predicting significant progress in 2025. However, whether that will translate to taking on a formidable challenge like Itauma remains to be seen.

Itauma, speaking to Sky Sports, emphasized his desire to continue progressing rapidly. He even stated he would be ready to face IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois now if given the opportunity.

“If the fight was presented to me, I’d take it—100 percent,” Itauma said. However, he admitted that his current position in the heavyweight rankings makes a title fight unlikely within the next year.

Who could be next for the young British Heavyweight? The British Boxing Board of Control ordered David Adeleye to defend his English heavyweight title against Itauma last month.

One thing is clear: few fighters are eager to step into the ring with Itauma, given his blend of power and skill. If Huni is willing, this bout could become a reality sooner rather than later.