World Boxing Organisation (WBO) president Gustavo Olivieri has named British-Nigerian born boxer Moses Itauma as the new number one contender in the heavyweight division, following his explosive second-round knockout of American Mike Balogun on Saturday night in Glasgow.
The announcement, made via social media just an hour after the fight, comes as the 20-year-old southpaw extended his professional record to 12-0, with 10 knockouts, successfully defending his WBO Inter-Continental heavyweight title for the third time.
“Moses has climbed the WBO rankings with talent, discipline, and electrifying performances,” Olivieri posted. “Now the #1 world-rated heavyweight contender, his moment is approaching. It’s only a matter of time before he gets his shot and the world sees a new star emerge. #NewEra”
Itauma’s rapid rise to the top of the WBO rankings has sparked debate among boxing fans and analysts, with critics arguing that he lacks the elite-level experience typically required for such a high ranking. Nevertheless, the WBO’s endorsement reflects growing confidence in the young fighter’s potential to shake up the heavyweight scene.
Saturday’s win was a statement performance from Itauma, who returned to the ring after a five-month layoff. His opponent, former NFL linebacker-turned-boxer Mike Balogun, was dropped twice in the first round by powerful left hands and ultimately finished in the second by a crisp lead right hook.
Olivieri’s remarks also hinted at future plans for Itauma, suggesting the rising star could soon challenge unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk, who is preparing for a rematch against Itauma’s stablemate, Daniel Dubois, on July 19 at Wembley Stadium.
With his latest victory and newfound top contender status, Moses Itauma is now firmly in the global spotlight — and possibly just one fight away from a world title shot.
