Heavyweight boxing sensation Moses Itauma earned a career-best payday of up to $1.5 million after his explosive first-round knockout of veteran Dillian Whyte in Riyadh on Saturday night.
The 20-year-old British-Nigerian prodigy, guaranteed $1 million with potential bonuses pushing the figure higher, stunned the boxing world with a devastating right hand that floored Whyte in just 119 seconds at the ANB Arena.
Whyte, despite being stopped, reportedly earned around $2.7 million from the bout. Both fighters received flat fees from Riyadh Season, with additional win bonuses but no pay-per-view revenue share.
Itauma’s Perfect Record and Rising Title Shot
The emphatic victory extended Itauma’s unbeaten professional record to 13 wins (11 KOs), cementing his status as one of boxing’s fastest-rising stars. With Oleksandr Usyk’s schedule possibly opening a WBO title vacancy, Itauma is now in prime position for a title shot.
Promoter Frank Warren hailed his composure and talent:
“How he did it – the temperament, the control, the composure – he fights better than guys at their peak, and he’s only 20.”
What’s Next for Itauma?
Itauma made it clear he is ready for anyone:
“I will fight anyone they put in front of me,” he told DAZN.
Joseph Parker has already been floated as a possible opponent, while industry insiders believe Itauma could challenge for a world title within the next 12 months.
Whyte’s Uncertain Future
For Dillian Whyte (37), the loss marks his second knockout defeat in recent years, raising doubts about his long-term prospects. Despite arriving in peak condition, he struggled to withstand Itauma’s explosive power and precision.
As the spotlight shifts, Itauma’s youth, power, and discipline make him one of the most marketable heavyweights in the division, with his next fight set to attract major global attention.
