Aiming for a blockbuster clash, Olympic silver medallist Richard Torrez Jr has publicly challenged British-Nigerian heavyweight prospect Moses Itauma, saying he wants to test the unbeaten youngster in the ring.
Itauma — who has compiled an unblemished 13-0 ledger with 11 stoppages — has found opponents hard to secure, with names such as Jermaine Franklin and Filip Hrgovic reportedly turning down offers to face him.
The 20-year-old also passed on a proposed IBF title eliminator against Frank Sanchez, but appeared to have a route forward when the WBA named him to face their regular champion, Kubrat Pulev. In a dramatic switch, however, Pulev elected to meet former unified cruiserweight titlist Murat Gassiev on December 12 instead.
Speaking to Sean Zittel, Torrez made his interest clear:
“I want that Itauma fight. I think that would be a great fight. Everyone wants to know if he’s ready for Usyk or not. Look at me, I’m a lefty. I’m a heavyweight. I move a lot. I have pressure. I punch a lot. Let’s see how it goes,” Torrez said.
The 26-year-old, who also boasts a 13-0 record with 11 KOs, stressed he isn’t avoiding the matchup and wants the contest to happen.
“I understand he wants the belt, but we’re both young heavyweights, we’re both at it, we’re both willing and able. I’m not going to duck that fight. I would love to have that fight. Let’s put some action together,” he added.
“I know the UK fans are amazing people, amazing fight fans. I say that’s a great fight to make happen and make happen quick. Outside the ring, I’m a pretty placid guy, but inside the ring, you put a baby in there, I’m gonna punch that baby, man.”
Torrez — fresh from a points victory over Guido Vianello in April — appears keen to push for the bout. Meanwhile, promoter Frank Warren has confirmed Itauma will not compete in December as once expected and is likely to remain inactive until 2026 while talks continue over a mandatory showdown with Pulev.
