GLASGOW – The heavyweight contender Mike Balogun believes he could be the man to teach rising prospect Moses Itauma a lesson.
The 41-year-old southpaw, who fights out of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, is 21-1 (16 KOs), and knows much is expected of Itauma, who is just 20 but scooped prospect of the year honors across the board in 2024.
Balogun thanked his team for landing the Itauma fight in Scotland on Saturday, at the OVO Hydro, and said at the final press conference: “I’m no pushover; never been one. I’ve always been the one who steps up to challenges and comes out on top. I don’t see this as any different.”
The American also thanked Itauma for the opportunity he has been presented with.
“He could have fought anybody in his position,” said Balogun. “It’s big; it’s huge. A win on Saturday allows me to fight at bigger events, bigger belts, and bigger purses.”
Francis Warren, who manages Itauma, had earlier spoken of his client’s promise, the expectation surrounding Itauma, and his hopes for him.
He said Itauma was not just the heir apparent in the heavyweight division, but a future global superstar.
“He will be the face of boxing – the face of sport – this guy’s going to do it all,” said Warren. “Do not take your eyes off this man’s journey. Moses Itauma is going to be a phenomenon.”
Of the fight on Saturday, Warren said: “Every fight’s very important. Moses is still developing as a fighter and he’s working every day with Ben [Davison]. I’ve never seen someone work so hard, but I’ve also not seen anyone with so much talent and ambition.”
Itauma seemed somewhat taken aback by his opponent’s respectfulness.
“I always gauge my opposition and as he’s talking I can see he’s respectful and intelligent,” said Itauma. “From what I’ve watched, he’s a fast, powerful puncher. The only reason we’re here is no one else will take the fight; he’s obviously the opponent I’ve got and I want to showcase my talent.”
Then, with the temperature gently rising, he added: “Everyone’s expecting me to blow you out, and I guess I will, but it’s the fact that if I don’t knock him out there’s a question mark. It puts pressure on me, but I like it. When you put pressure on people, that’s when you grow, so I’m looking forward to this.
“I think I will [get rounds under his belt]. I’ve watched his fights; he has very fast hands and he’s very athletic. It’s gonna make for a good fight.
“Everyone is here to watch Josh Taylor and Ekow Essuman [in the main event], so I’m gonna make it a quick one.”
Balogun replied: “Well, fuck around and find out… He’s going to learn a lesson.”