In a stunning twist that’s sent shockwaves through the heavyweight division, undisputed world champion Oleksandr Usyk has finally responded to rising star Moses Itauma’s bold call-out with a resounding “I accept this offer.” The 37-year-old Ukrainian, fresh off his second undisputed reign after knocking out Daniel Dubois in May 2025, dropped the bombshell during a surprise interview on DAZN’s *Boxing Files* podcast, confirming he’s open to facing the 20-year-old British phenom. Itauma, who exploded onto the scene with a first-round demolition of Dillian Whyte in August, had publicly challenged Usyk post-victory, claiming he’d “wreck” the old guard—including Usyk—echoing Tyson Fury’s endorsement.
Usyk’s response was characteristically cool and calculated. “Moses is the future, I like this guy. Great power, great heart,” Usyk said, smiling through his signature stoic demeanor. “He called me out? I accept this offer. Let’s make it happen—boxing needs young blood.” The declaration came after weeks of speculation, fueled by Fury’s viral prediction that Itauma would “wreck all them old men,” including Usyk, Joshua, and Ortiz. Itauma, now 13-0 with 11 KOs, had humbly noted he might not “deserve” the shot yet but was ready if it came.
The call-out originated in Riyadh, where Itauma’s blistering stoppage of Whyte (his 11th KO) earned Fury’s praise and put him in the top 10 heavyweight rankings. “Usyk will only have a couple more fights,” Fury tweeted, urging promoters to fast-track the matchup. Usyk’s manager, Sergey Lapin, had previously cautioned it was “too soon” for Itauma, suggesting tune-ups against Wardley or Jalolov first. But Usyk overruled, adding, “He’s ready for me—definitely. Let’s test the future now.”
Boxing’s elite reacted swiftly. Promoter Eddie Hearn called it “explosive,” hinting at a 2026 clash post-Usyk’s mandatory defense against Joseph Parker. Fury, ever the provocateur, replied: “Told you—Moses wrecks him!” Itauma, training in Manchester, posted on Instagram: “Dream come true. Usyk, let’s dance.” Fans are buzzing, with #UsykVsItauma trending globally, amassing 2 million mentions. Critics worry for the young Brit’s safety—Usyk’s 23-0 record includes wins over Fury (twice) and Joshua—but supporters see it as a generational clash.
This “offer” acceptance could reshape the division, pitting Usyk’s technical mastery against Itauma’s raw power. With Usyk eyeing retirement after two more bouts, the timing is perfect—or perilous. As promoters scramble, one thing’s clear: heavyweight boxing just got a blockbuster. Will Itauma dethrone the king, or become his next victim? Sound off below! 👇👇
