Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has revealed that the former two-time heavyweight champion would be open to facing rising star Moses Itauma, but only if a world title was at stake.
Itauma, just 20, is tipped for heavyweight greatness after demolishing Dillian Whyte in the first round of their bout in Riyadh.
Despite his limited professional experience, his explosive performances have already sparked talk of a showdown with Anthony Joshua, who is 15 years older and a proven global star.
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Speaking during an interview with Sky Sports, Hearn said Anthony Joshua will only take on Itauma for a title fight.
“AJ, his decision would be completely different. He would probably be bang up for fighting Moses. He’d find that exciting, and if there was a chance to fight Moses for the world heavyweight title, we’d take it in a heartbeat.”
Joshua and Itauma share the same coach, Ben Davison, and often train together, which has made some insiders sceptical about the fight ever materialising. Hall of Fame promoter Frank Warren, who represents Itauma, admitted.
“I’d do that (fight) tomorrow. It isn’t going to happen. First of all, they’ve got the same trainer.”
Hearn, however, acknowledged both the risks and the intrigue of such a matchup.
“Moses is a very good fighter. If you win, you’ve beaten up a 20-year-old. If you lose, you’ve lost to a 20-year-old and your career’s over. It’s a dangerous fight—I rate Moses very highly.”
Joshua has not returned to the ring since suffering a knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024 before undergoing elbow surgery.
While brief talks with Jake Paul collapsed after the YouTuber announced an exhibition bout with Gervonta Davis, Joshua is expected to make his comeback in early 2026 before targeting a clash with Tyson Fury, who has teased a return from retirement.
As for Itauma, his promoter Frank Warren is eyeing another fight in December, with Hearn pushing for tougher opposition to test the young prodigy.
“He’s an extraordinary talent, but we have no idea yet if he can tick all the boxes to be a true champion. What’s his chin like? How does he cope when it gets really tough? I want to see him against the likes of Agit Kabayel, Martin Bakole, or Jarrell Miller,” Hearn added.
