Itauma speaks after Hrgović defeat: ‘It wasn’t my night, but I’ll come back’

Moses Itauma did not look for excuses after the first defeat of his professional career. A day after Filip Hrgović stopped him in the ninth round at London’s O2 Arena, the British heavyweight prospect used social media to congratulate his opponent.

“It wasn’t my night yesterday. We tried to do something big, but we lost to a more experienced man,” Itauma said. “I want to congratulate Filip Hrgović on his victory.”

Itauma went to hospital with injuries after the fight, but later found the strength to address the public. He said the loss had given him experience that would help in future bouts. He also thanked the fans who filled the London arena, Queensberry Promotions and DAZN.

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It wasn’t my night yesterday. We tried to do something big, but we lost to a more experienced man. I want to congratulate Filip Hrgović on his victory.

The defeat came after months in which Itauma had built a reputation as one of boxing’s leading young talents. He had made an impressive start and, according to many assessments, won much of the first eight rounds. Hrgović absorbed the pressure, survived difficult moments and finished the fight in the ninth.

For Hrgović, the stoppage delivered the world title he had spent years seeking. Itauma, meanwhile, chose to treat the setback as part of his development. “I’ll come back,” he said.

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I’ll come back.