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Hrgovic makes history as first Croatian heavyweight boxing champion

Croatian boxer Filip Hrgovic has claimed the IBF world heavyweight title, becoming the first fighter from his nation to reach the pinnacle of the division. His British opponent Moses Itauma was hospitalized following the bout.

LSN World News · 30 August 2026

Hrgovic makes history as first Croatian heavyweight boxing champion

Filip Hrgovic etched his name into Croatian sporting history on Saturday by capturing the IBF world heavyweight championship in a decisive victory over Britain's Moses Itauma. The triumph marks a watershed moment for boxing in the Balkan nation, with Hrgovic becoming the first Croatian to claim a world heavyweight title.

Itauma required hospitalization following the contest, though details regarding the nature and severity of his condition remained limited. The British challenger's medical situation prompted immediate attention from ringside medical personnel.

Hrgovic's ascension to world champion status represents the culmination of years spent climbing the heavyweight rankings. The Croatian fighter has long been considered among the division's elite contenders and used Saturday's opportunity to realize his championship ambitions.

The IBF heavyweight title is among boxing's most prestigious accolades, joining the WBC, WBO, and WBA belts as one of the sport's four major world championships. Hrgovic's victory establishes him as a significant force in a heavyweight division that has attracted global attention in recent years.