Moses Itauma‘s spectacular knockout victory over Dillian Whyte in Riyadh on Saturday night earned him a career-high payment of over $1.5 million.
With bonuses, the 20-year-old British-Nigerian fighter’s $1 million guaranteed purse could increase to $1.5 million when he decisively stopped the seasoned heavyweight in the first round at the ANB Arena.
Despite losing by knockout for the second time in recent memory to Itauma’s thundering right hand after just 119 seconds, Whyte reportedly made over $2.7 million for the fight.
According to industry insiders, both competitors got fixed payments from the Riyadh Season, with no potential win incentives and no pay-per-view money as a backup.
Itauma’s victory, which increased his undefeated professional record to 13 wins with 11 knockouts, is much more than just a cash bonanza. The victory confirms his quick ascent through the heavyweight division and puts him in a position to discuss a title in the upcoming year.
“What comes next? Following the statement performance, Itauma told DAZN, “I will fight anyone they put in front of me.”
With Joseph Parker being named as a possible opponent, Itauma is currently in a strong position for title opportunities as Oleksandr Usyk’s schedule may force a WBO vacancy.
The 37-year-old Whyte is concerned about his future in the sport after the loss. Even though he came in the best physical condition of his career, he was unable to match Itauma’s explosive power and accuracy, which made the market for him to compete in future high-profile bouts colder.
Itauma’s maturity beyond his years was complimented by promoter Frank Warren.
Warren told BBC Radio 5 Live, “How he did it, his temperament, control, and composure – he fights better than guys at their peak and he is 20 years old.”
Despite his increasing confidence, the Slovakian fighter has been meticulously coached throughout his professional career and is unlikely to be pushed into contests that are out of his price range.
