Hrgovic Stops Itauma for IBF Heavyweight Title

34-year-old Hrgovic became Croatia's first heavyweight champion after mounting a late rally against the younger Itauma. Despite being dropped in the second round and dominated by Itauma's speed and power for much of the fight, Hrgovic showed granite-like determination as the Briton's stamina dipped.

Itauma, 21, began weaving in woozy fatigue during the eighth round, and couldn't withstand Hrgovic's renewed conviction in the ninth. As the referee stepped in to stop the fight, Itauma's trainer also threw in the towel, saving his man from a knockout. rouesnews.click