Boxing Match Preview: Moses Itauma (11-0-0, 9 KOs) vs. Mike Balogun (21-1-0, 16 KOs)
Fight Details
Matchup: Moses Itauma (11-0-0, 9 KOs) vs. Mike Balogun (21-1-0, 16 KOs)
Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025
Venue: OVO Hydro, Glasgow, Scotland
Division: Heavyweight (200+ lbs)
Rounds: 10
Broadcast: DAZN
Fighter Profiles & Recent Form
Moses Itauma
Age: 20
Height: 6’2″ (188 cm)
Stance: Southpaw
Professional Rounds: 23
Ranking: Rising heavyweight prospect
Itauma is one of the most exciting young heavyweights in boxing today. The British fighter has been dominant since turning professional in 2023, winning all 11 of his fights, with nine knockouts coming inside the first two rounds. His most recent victory was a sensational first-round KO of Demsey McKean, which went viral and further cemented his reputation as a future world title contender.
Itauma possesses elite power, speed, and ring IQ, making him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division. His ability to control distance and explode with combinations has drawn comparisons to some of the best heavyweights in history. This fight against Balogun is seen as another stepping stone toward a world title shot in the next 18 months.
Mike Balogun
Age: 41
Height: 6’1″ (185 cm)
Stance: Southpaw
Professional Rounds: 87
Ranking: Experienced heavyweight contender
Balogun is a former NFL linebacker who transitioned to boxing in 2014. Since then, he has built a solid record of 21-1, with 16 knockouts, showcasing his raw power and athleticism. His most recent fight was a unanimous decision victory over Lamont Capers, proving he can go the distance when needed.
Balogun’s only career loss came against former cruiserweight champion Murat Gassiev, who stopped him in the second round in 2023. While Balogun has faced limited elite competition, his physical strength and knockout ability make him a dangerous test for Itauma.
Key Matchups & Fight Analysis
Power vs. Experience
Itauma is the younger, faster, and more explosive fighter, while Balogun has more professional rounds and veteran experience. If Itauma can dictate the pace early, he could secure another quick knockout.
Defensive Strategy
Balogun has shown durability, but his defensive lapses have led to stoppages in the past. Itauma’s precision and counterpunching could expose Balogun’s weaknesses.
Championship Aspirations
Itauma is being fast-tracked toward a world title, and a dominant win here could set up bigger fights against contenders like Martin Bakole or Filip Hrgovic later this year.
FIGHT ODDS
Moses Itauma – 3300
Mike Balogun + 1600
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, May 23, 2025