Usyk recently dismissed the idea of facing the 21-year-old, saying he did not want to “break” him. The Ukrainian pointed to Itauma’s age and experience, indicating that the priority should be rounds, development and building through the ranks.
Chisora agreed with that position and outlined a path he believes Itauma should follow before asking for a shot to the top.
“Why should he fight Itauma? Did Itauma win the British title? Did he win a European title? Did he win an English title?
“Everyone has steps to take. I think Moses Itauma should win the European title, British title and other belts.
“He should fight Fabio (because he’s No. 2 in the WBO). It’s a good fight for Fabio.”
Usyk, now 39, has already outlined how he wants to end his career. A fight with Rico Verhoeven is targeted for May 23, followed by a fight with the winner of Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois on May 9 for the vacant WBO title he once held.
A third meeting with Tyson Fury, who has outpointed Usyk twice in 2024, is still being considered provided both continue to win.
That leaves Itauma out of the immediate picture despite his reputation as one of the division’s top prospects. He returns against Jermaine Franklin on March 28, a move that will test his progress against a durable opponent.
Itauma has the power and hand speed, but he needs more rounds against men who can push him back and let him rebuild his attitude under pressure.
Chisora’s Wardley proposal brings its own complication, with both fighters linked to trainer Ben Davison. Itauma acknowledged that a route through Dubois, should he beat Wardley, could provide a cleaner path to a title.
At heavyweight, fighters are usually brought through British and European level before moving into title contention.
