Heavyweight Boxing
London, UK - British heavyweight sensation Moses Itauma is gearing up for his toughest test yet as he faces Australia’s Demsey McKean on December 21st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The bout will be for Itauma's WBO Inter-Continental Title and is part of the Riyadh Season's Reignited card, headlined by the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury for the World Heavyweight Championship. Itauma, just 19 years old, is blazing a trail through the heavyweight division, and McKean presents an intriguing challenge.
Moses Itauma (10-0, 8 KOs) has wasted no time establishing himself as one of the most exciting prospects in heavyweight boxing. In just two years since turning professional, he has showcased his immense potential, blending power, precision, and a southpaw stance that's troubled even seasoned fighters. Itauma’s most recent victory, a two-round dismantling of the durable Mariusz Wach, sent shockwaves through the division and further cemented his reputation as a future champion.
"The sky's the limit for me," Itauma said after the Wach fight. "I'm 19 years old, and I do believe I'm the future of the heavyweight division and British boxing in general."
Demsey McKean (22-1, 14 KOs) is no stranger to high-stakes fights. The Australian southpaw’s only professional loss came against Filip Hrgovic, one of the most highly regarded contenders in the division. While McKean has not fought since that defeat in August 2023, he remains a formidable opponent, bringing experience and resilience to the table.
McKean is aware of the challenge Itauma poses but has promised to bring his best. “I’m not flying halfway around the world to lose,” McKean said. “God is giving me everything I need for victory. I’ll be more than ready.”
This fight promises to be a fascinating clash of styles. Itauma’s speed, footwork, and ring IQ have drawn comparisons to Oleksandr Usyk, while McKean’s size, toughness, and all-action approach provide a significant test for the young Briton. Itauma acknowledges the challenge McKean presents but is confident in his abilities.
"Demsey’s had a lot more fights than I have, but I didn’t start boxing yesterday,” Itauma said. “He’s switched on, ready to fight, and I’m going to bring my A-game as well. I’ll have to knock this man out.”
Itauma’s ambitions are clear: He aims to become the youngest heavyweight champion in history. To achieve that goal, he must continue climbing the rankings, and a victory over McKean would be a significant step forward. Itauma’s manager, Michael Francis, emphasized the importance of this fight, saying, “This bout will be all action. Both of these heavyweights don’t like going the distance. Fight fans are going to enjoy the clash of these big men.”
Itauma has already sparred with elite fighters, including Anthony Joshua, Daniel Dubois, and Tyson Fury, learning valuable lessons along the way. His time with Fury, in particular, left a lasting impression. "Tyson always drops wisdom," Itauma shared. "He taught me the importance of having a balanced life, balanced between boxing, life, and fun."
With the heavyweight division brimming with talent, a win for Itauma would bolster his standing among the rising stars. However, McKean has the tools to make this a competitive and potentially career-defining fight. The bout is set to be an electrifying showcase of skill, power, and determination on one of the biggest stages in boxing.
As Itauma himself put it, “It’s scary, my potential and where I can go. With these step-ups, I’ll be able to show people the level that I’m at.”
For boxing fans, December 21st is shaping up to be a night to remember. While the Usyk vs. Fury rematch will dominate headlines, the Itauma-McKean showdown could steal the show as the moment a new heavyweight star truly arrived.