Filip Hrgovic has sent Moses Itauma a clear message after the young heavyweight suffered the first defeat of his professional career. Speaking to DAZN during the Daniel Dubois vs. Fabio Wardley rematch event, Hrgovic urged Itauma not to give up and to keep working toward his goals.

The Croatian boxer described the 21-year-old as a special talent with speed and ability, despite beating him in their August 29 fight in London. Hrgovic believes Itauma still has the tools to enjoy a successful career, but he must learn from the loss.

The advice comes after Itauma struggled to maintain his early pace against Hrgovic, who survived the opening rounds and secured a ninth-round stoppage. Hrgovic’s message is simple: Itauma must stay mentally strong and keep moving forward.

Filip Hrgovic Sends Moses Itauma a Strong Message After Defeat

Hrgovic told members of Itauma’s team that the young fighter “can’t give up” and “must continue.” He also praised Itauma as a “special kid,” describing him as “very talented, very quick” and “the best guy who I box with.”

The Croatian’s comments reflect his belief that Itauma’s first professional defeat does not have to define his future. Hrgovic has warned that some fighters struggle to recover their confidence after a major loss, making Itauma’s response important to the next stage of his career.

Hrgovic understands the challenge of rebuilding after defeat. He suffered his only professional loss to Daniel Dubois before returning to the ring and working his way back toward the top of the heavyweight division.

He has also described the experience of winning the IBF heavyweight title after years of effort and facing doubts from others. His own journey gives context to his advice for Itauma, who must now show he has learned from the setback.

How Filip Hrgovic Beat Moses Itauma in Their Heavyweight Fight

Itauma faced Hrgovic on August 29, 2026, in London in a fight for the vacant IBF heavyweight title. The younger boxer controlled much of the early action, using his speed, movement and punch volume to build an advantage on the scorecards.

Hrgovic stayed in the fight despite absorbing punches and allowed the contest to develop. As Itauma’s pace slowed, the Croatian increased his pressure and took control. The referee stopped the fight in the ninth round, handing Itauma the first defeat of his professional career despite his strong start.

Hrgovic later said Itauma was still boxing “like an amateur” in a 12-round contest. His point was about managing energy and maintaining a steady pace rather than relying on early success.

The fight showed the difference between dominating the opening rounds and sustaining that performance over a full heavyweight contest. Itauma’s speed and accuracy troubled Hrgovic early, but the Croatian’s experience helped him take advantage when the pace changed.

Hrgovic’s advice is for Itauma to learn how to manage his energy, stay composed and remain effective in the later rounds.

Moses Itauma Must Rebuild Before Returning to Title Contention

Itauma has acknowledged the need to review his performance and take responsibility for the defeat. He has spoken about watching the fight footage and recognising that his body stopped responding as he continued trying to land punches.

Promoter Frank Warren has indicated a possible January return against a meaningful opponent, followed by another push toward a world title if Itauma performs well. The plans will give the young heavyweight a chance to rebuild his confidence and show what he has learned.

Hrgovic believes Itauma does not need to abandon the speed and accuracy that made him one of boxing’s most highly regarded prospects. Instead, he needs to maintain those strengths for longer and improve his approach to a 12-round fight.

The Croatian has made it clear that Itauma’s talent remains, but the next stage will test his mental strength as much as his boxing skills.

Itauma still has time to recover from his first defeat. Hrgovic’s message is that he must continue, learn from the experience and return with a better understanding of how to manage a demanding heavyweight fight.