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Itauma vs Hrgovic: IBF Heavyweight Title Fight Predictions

BBC Sport •
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Moses Itauma faces Filip Hrgovic for the vacant IBF heavyweight title at London's O2 Arena on Saturday. The 21-year-old Briton, undefeated in 14 fights with 12 stoppages, aims to become the youngest heavyweight world champion since Mike Tyson in 1986. Hrgovic, 34, a 2016 Olympic bronze medallist, holds a 20-1 record with 15 stoppages and is seen as a significant step up in competition.

BBC Sport gathered predictions from boxing figures: Prince Naseem Hamed believes Itauma will win easily, calling it one of his easiest nights. Carl Frampton favours Itauma but warns Hrgovic's toughness could make it difficult later. Tony Bellew predicts an Itauma victory inside three rounds due to his speed and power.

Anthony Crolla backs Itauma to win by stoppage in the sixth or seventh round, citing his speed and timing. Jeamie TKV and Paul Smith also predict Itauma to win, with Smith expecting a mid-to-late round stoppage. All pundits agree Itauma is the favourite, though they acknowledge Hrgovic's resilience and ability to absorb punishment.

Live coverage begins at 19:30 BST on BBC Sport website and app, with radio commentary on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra and BBC Sounds from 21:00, switching to BBC Radio 5 Live from 22:00.