Looking at Itauma’s recent win, Bradley praised the raw ability on display, but pointed to a bigger problem developing behind the knockouts.
“This type of competition. It’s not good for him,” Bradley said. “They have to step up their competition.”
The former two-division champion explained that the problem is not confidence or talent. In his opinion, Itauma already believes he belongs at the top.
“He already believes he’s the best in the world,” Bradley said. “I promise you, ask him that question. He’s going to tell me.”
Instead, Bradley focused on what happens when a fighter holds down opponents who can’t push back. He noticed that certain habits began to appear, but no one could take advantage of them.
“Sometimes he pushes with his left hand … I see it every fight,” Bradley said. “No one could make him pay.”
Bradley also said the unanswered questions that have not yet been forced into the open, particularly about stamina and pace. Itauma ended most of his fights early, leaving little evidence of how he performs deep into later rounds.
“I want to know about 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, can you continue?” Bradley said.
Even in the fight he reviewed, Bradley noted signs that Itauma is still learning how to manage his energy over rounds, adding that those problems only appear when a fighter is extended.
Despite the concerns, Bradley didn’t discount Itauma’s upside. He highlighted the speed, power and decision-making that immediately stood out, citing his mental processing as one of his greatest strengths.
“What impressed me is how fast his processor is,” Bradley said.
Bradley’s view is simple: the talent is clear, but the next phase of Itauma’s career depends on whether his team begins to match him with opponents who can test it.
