British-Nigerian boxer Moses Itauma discusses his journey in the heavyweight division, his aspirations in boxing, his Nigerian heritage, and shaping his own narrative in this conversation withPETER AKINBO
What is it like to be back in Nigeria on the day of independence?
I just wanted to express that I have felt extremely welcomed. I believe I've had an experience here that I haven't encountered in my brief travels. For instance, I was at the airport yesterday (Tuesday) and a security officer asked me if those belts were mine. I confirmed they were, and she then asked, "Are you Nigerian?" I replied, "My father is Nigerian." She responded, "We are proud of you," without even knowing my background. That's one thing I can highlight. I'm happy to be back home.
You are now a genuine top-tier championship hopeful. How has the path been up to this point?
It hasn't been a long journey, to be honest, since I'm only 20 years old, but I'm always curious and constantly learning. Each city and country I visit teaches me something new. Coming here, I have to admit, my connection with Nigeria and Africa as a whole hasn't been significant. So I'm really happy to be here and learning so much about the culture and my own heritage that I haven't been exposed to before. I'm always learning and evolving, and I think that's a positive thing because if I want to reach the next level or go where I want to, I can't stay the same person forever.
Are there any records you still aim to surpass, now that the Mike Tyson record is no longer achievable?
I often get asked this question. There are certainly records to be broken, but I believe everyone has their own journey or is currently on their own path. Mike Tyson had his own career, Evander Holyfield had his own, and Anthony Joshua is building his own. Am I wrong for wanting to shape Moses Itauma's career? I want to be my own individual. I don't wish to be like anyone else, and that's what I'm striving to maintain.
In what ways has Nigeria shaped your current identity?
I get the sense that there's a slight unfair benefit for the competitors since I have to admit, the "Nigerian power" definitely gives me an edge in the ring, I can't deny that. So naturally, these guys have all built their own careers. As you pointed out, there's Anthony Joshua, Lawrence Okolie, Daniel Dubois, and Dillian Whyte, who all have Nigerian heritage. So there are many fighters worldwide with Nigerian roots, and I believe there must be something special about the water.
What was it like to grow up in Slovakia regarding racism?
I think it's clear that times have evolved, but when I was growing up, people there weren't accustomed to seeing individuals of color. It wasn't easy. My brothers faced it more because they attended school. When we left Slovakia, I was too young, but my older brothers went through it. However, I suppose we should forgive people because they simply don't understand. They haven't gone through it, so there's no need to hold resentment towards others. I still return every year and spend Christmas with my mother's family, so it's not a place I avoid or won't go back to, as I still have affection for the country, but it was definitely challenging growing up there.
What are your thoughts on possible matches against other boxers of Nigerian heritage, such as Anthony Joshua or Efe Ajagba?
Anthony Joshua, I don't think that match would ever take place. We share the same coach. I'm not sure how that would function. Ajagba, I mean, that could potentially happen, but he's not really on the current list. However, for me, my role is simply to step into the ring and fight. That's essentially my job. All the matters outside the ring, like arranging fights and such, aren't really my responsibility. It's up to the team.
What are your thoughts on a possible confrontation with Oleksandr Usyk?
I believe that no matter what happens in that fight, it will always result in a victory. For instance, if I enter the ring and win, I'll have clearly won the world heavyweight championship at just 20 years old. If I end up losing, I would still have challenged for the world heavyweight title at 20 years old. Therefore, it's always a win-win situation. The experience gained from that fight would be invaluable. So, yes, I hope that this fight eventually takes place one day. That's why many people shouldn't be surprised when I knock these opponents out in one or two rounds, as these fighters haven't encountered someone like me before.
Do you believe that becoming the world champion at a young age is beneficial for you, or would it be better to achieve this later?
I think it will have to wait, but clearly, I want to become the champion as early as possible. However, in my mind, something suggests that wasn't part of my original plan. I feel as though God was saying, "You're not ready for that yet," because even though there's a competitive spirit within me, there's also all the additional elements—more media attention, more people you have to interact with, everything outside the ring. I believe God intentionally said, "You're not ready for that." So he's placed other smaller challenges in my path for me to learn from. I still aim to be the heavyweight champion soon, but I didn't break Mike Tyson's record, so there's no need to rush anymore.
What about the record for the longest-serving world champion?
I believe it's 11 years, that's a long time, I'm not sure. The point is, I recall seeing a photo of the top six youngest heavyweight champions ever, and it included Mike Tyson, Floyd Patterson, Muhammad Ali, and all the way down to number six, who were all remarkable names. And number six was someone like George Foreman at just 24 years old. I thought to myself, I could probably become a world champion within those four years, and that would place me among those greats, which is a huge honor.
When do you expect to obtain that belt?
That's all that occupies my thoughts, but you don't recall, boxing can last between 15 to 20 years. I'm only 20 years old. I turned pro two years ago, so I still have plenty of time ahead. One day, I'll win the title and return to Nigeria to celebrate here.
Have you discussed the topic of conflicts in Nigeria?
Of course, this is something we've discussed. There are conflicts happening in Nigeria, in Africa, and across the continent. I believe there's a great deal of talent. I think my father also mentions this. There's a lot of potential that hasn't been realized yet. So, it's definitely going to happen soon, but we have definitely been talking about it.
What made you decide to work with Bet9ja?
One of the key reasons, personally for me, that led me to work with Bet9ja is, as I mentioned, growing up in Slovakia and the UK, I never really developed a strong connection with Nigeria. When this opportunity arose, I felt it was the right moment to explore my roots. It's an excellent chance to learn about my heritage, so we're here to uncover it. One of the main motivations for me was definitely to trace my origins, but also to discuss establishing charities and supporting young Nigerian athletes in unlocking their potential.
Which region in Nigeria do you hail from?
My father was born in Lagos, but his ancestry comes from Akwa Ibom. The initial plan was to come with my father, but he wasn't able to join. However, I have maintained regular contact with him. He is certainly a proud Nigerian, and he especially wanted me to connect with that heritage. We had a meeting two weeks ago with the governor of Akwa Ibom, and he is very keen for me to visit there as well. So I am really looking forward to going.
What statement does this collaboration convey to young people in Nigeria?
That's a thoughtful question. I don't believe it's about conveying a message, but rather about actively engaging in the development of young athletes. It has never been about sending a message. Instead, it's always focused on identifying the hidden potential within every Nigerian youth athlete, so it's about putting it into action.
Do you have a preferred location for a battle among Nigeria, Wembley, Las Vegas, or Saudi Arabia?
No, my favorite aspect is winning. The reason I mentioned that is because when I began boxing, it wasn't about becoming a superstar or selling tickets. It was simply something I wanted to accomplish. So whether I box in Wembley, or in Saudi Arabia, or if I ever box in Nigeria, it's about completing the task and performing effectively.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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