Former world champion Roy Jones Jr has compared rising heavyweight Moses Itauma to the legendary Mike Tyson. The 20-year-old British boxer has shown a powerful presence in the ring, reminding Jones Jr of Tyson’s destructive style.
Jones Jr, who fought Tyson in an exhibition match in 2020, was impressed by Itauma’s recent win over Dillian Whyte.
Tyson became the youngest heavyweight champion ever at 20 years old in 1986. While Itauma hasn’t broken that record, his quick rise in boxing has earned him similar praise.
In his last fight, Itauma knocked out Whyte in the first round, adding to a series of early wins that mark him as one of the most dangerous young fighters in the heavyweight division.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s White & Jordan, Jones Jr said:
“I really like Moses Itauma. He reminds me of a young Mike Tyson. When he hits someone, they go down. Dillian Whyte could take a hit, but Moses knocked him out early. That’s just like how Mike Tyson fought when he was starting out. It’s exciting to see Moses follow a path like that. He might even be better, but either way, his potential is huge.”
Jones Jr, who was a heavyweight champion after winning titles in four different weight classes, believes Itauma has what it takes to reach the top.
Currently ranked number one by the WBO, Itauma is now seen as a strong contender for a world title fight.