Filip Hrgovic Addresses Controversy Surrounding SLAP Incident with Moses Itauma During Intense Final Face-Off Ahead of World Title Fight at O2 Arena
FILIP HRGOVIC has responded following his intense encounter with Moses Itauma.
The two boxers had a heated final face-off on Friday as they prepared for their fight for the vacant IBF heavyweight title at the O2 Arena later today.
Itauma intensified the altercation by shoving the Croatian boxer off the stage after a fiery staredown.
Former interim IBF title challenger Hrgovic was clearly irritated by the encounter and responded with a SLAP to Itauma’s face.
A brief scuffle ensued, but security quickly intervened to separate the fighters.
Hrgovic had remained silent about the incident until he addressed it on his Instagram account today, sending a message to Itauma.
PUNDITS PICK
SunSport’s star-studded No Glove Lost panel provides predictions for Itauma vs Hrgovic
MATCHED
Bet £10+ on football and receive up to £30 in free bets with talkSPORT BET
He stated: “Tonight, I bring with me two decades of boxing experience.
“Two decades filled with sweat, hard work, and unwavering resolve. Two decades of diligent training.
“Tonight is simply the final round. 🏆 #OnTheHunt #TeamHrgovic #HF.”
Hrgovic is viewed as a significant underdog as he seeks his second shot at a world title.
SUN VEGAS WELCOME OFFER: GET UP TO £100 BONUS
Moses Itauma vs Filip Hrgovic – all the details
Moses Itauma and Filip Hrgovic will face off for the IBF heavyweight world title
The stakes are remarkably high as either Moses Itauma or Filip Hrgovic will be crowned IBF heavyweight champion TONIGHT!
Itauma, 21, has been making headlines in the division with a series of first-round knockouts in 2023.
Three years into his career, the British fighter remains undefeated and has consistently defeated his opponents.
This weekend, Itauma has the chance to become the youngest British heavyweight champion in history if he wins against Hrgovic at the O2 Arena.
WATCH ITAUMA VS HRGOVIC ON DAZN PPV
LATEST NEWS
KEY INFO
VIDEO
He is determined to halt the anticipated rise of 21-year-old Itauma to stardom in the heavyweight division.
During Thursday’s press conference, the 34-year-old pointed out: “I’m stating the facts; I’m not playing mind games.
“I’m not clever enough for strategy; I speak my mind, and I see him as a kid. I am the man.
“He lacks the maturity; my experience far exceeds his, and that’s the bottom line—no tricks.
“I will defeat the kid on Saturday and send him back to school.
“He has asked for respect, but I have come to London, his home turf, where everyone is shying away from this kid.
“I am here for the fight, and against all odds, I believe in myself.
“I’m facing the fighter they call ‘The next Mike Tyson.’ So show me some respect. I am going to take him down.”