Heavyweight contender questions Itauma’s nutritionists and specialists while praising an old-school approach to preparation
Filip Hrgovic has taken aim at Moses Itauma’s support team ahead of their August 29 heavyweight clash, questioning the value of the specialists surrounding the unbeaten prospect. The Croatian contender contrasted Itauma’s development with his own journey and said he still believes in an old-school approach built around hard work.
“I feel like when he got from amateurs to professionals, everything was on table for him and he just need to train and win,” said Hrgovic. “Guys from small countries, we don’t have that opportunity. We have much harder road.”
The Croatian then turned his attention to what he sees as modern boxing’s growing reliance on specialists and advisors.
“When you asked me about this nutritionist, drinking water on press conference. Psychologist. Coach for sleeping. Coach for jerking off. I don’t know,” Hrgovic said. “I don’t believe in that. I believe in old school, working hard.”
Hrgovic mocked the idea of being told how much water to consume by someone who has never competed in the ring.
“If I’m thirsty, I drink water. If I’m not thirsty, I’m not going to drink water. How’s this guy know how much water I need to drink?” Hrgovic said about Itauma.
Despite the criticism, Hrgovic acknowledged that Itauma has capitalized on the opportunities in front of him. The 33-year-old repeatedly described the matchup as one of the most exciting fights of the year and expressed confidence that a victory would put him in position to challenge for a world title.
Hrgovic enters the contest looking to derail the rapid rise of one of heavyweight boxing’s hottest prospects, while Itauma aims to add the most experienced opponent of his career to his growing resume.
