Klitschko praises Hrgović after dramatic world-title triumph: “You are a true champion!”

Filip Hrgović appeared to be losing control of the fight for much of the night, then found the moment that changed everything. The Croatian heavyweight stopped Moses Itauma by technical knockout in the ninth round at London’s O2 Arena and captured the IBF world title.

Wladimir Klitschko, one of boxing’s most prominent former champions, singled out the quality that helped Hrgović survive the difficult rounds. “My favorite principle in the FACE methodology is ENDURANCE, and once again it proved that ENDURANCE beats top-level technique and talent, just as in last night’s fight. Congratulations to my former sparring partner, the one and only Filip Hrgović; you are a true champion!”

Itauma had looked the better fighter for much of the bout, but Hrgović absorbed his attacks and conserved energy. When the young British fighter began to tire physically, Hrgović took advantage and completely changed the contest in the ninth round.

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My favorite principle in the FACE methodology is ENDURANCE, and once again it proved that ENDURANCE beats top-level technique and talent, just as in last night’s fight. Congratulations to my former sparring partner, the one and only Filip Hrgović; you are a true champion!

Klitschko also addressed Itauma, who suffered the first defeat of his professional career at 21. “I have been where you are now, Moses. You can come back stronger than ever, if you really want to.”

The message to Hrgović carried added meaning because the two men have known each other for years. Hrgović trained in Klitschko’s camps and served as his sparring partner while Klitschko prepared for his 2017 fight with Anthony Joshua at Wembley. At that time, Klitschko was the champion and global star, while Hrgović was still building his career. Now Hrgović wears the world heavyweight title.

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I have been where you are now, Moses. You can come back stronger than ever, if you really want to.