21-year-old Itauma, who hoped to become the second-youngest heavyweight champion in history, was stopped after mounting a strong early challenge. Hrgovic, 34, rallied from being dropped in the second round to dominate the later rounds as Itauma's stamina dipped.
With Itauma woozy and against the ropes in the ninth round, referee intervention came as Hrgovic pressed his advantage. Itauma's trainer Ben Davison also threw in the towel to prevent a knockout, marking a dramatic conclusion to the championship bout. sports24.club
