Moses Itauma is the new trending topic in the heavyweight division. He’s strong, fast, cunning and incredibly powerful, but he’s also young.

At just 20, Itauma (12-0, 10 KOs) looks the part, but according to his handlers he isn’t just flash with no substance. This past weekend, he went out and proved them right.

Mike Balogun isn’t some world-beater, but he’s a durable journeyman with a wealth of experience. However, when he stood across the ring from Itauma, he was steamrolled.

Once Balogun’s lifeless carcass was tossed aside, members from Team Itauma began mentioning Martin Bakole as a possible target. The 31-year-old contender loves a good fight. He’s also appreciative of Itauma mentioning him. With that said, he believes the young gun needs a few more rocks in his pockets and a lot more experience before taking him on.

“He’s a good guy, he knows how to box,” admitted Bakole. “He’s got a beautiful future coming, but mentioning my name, I’m a monster. He has a beautiful future. I want him to go slow. He must forget about Martin Bakole right now. He has another four to five fights before he mentions my name.”

Team Itauma appears to be on the fast track. But not only does the young heavyweight contender and his team believe he’s ready, but so does the sanctioning bodies. He’s ranked No. 7 in the IBF, third in the WBA, and most importantly, he has the WBO’s top spot.

Ironically enough, Bakole isn’t ranked as highly in those same bodies.

Bakole (21-2-1, 16 KOs) is in a bit of a weird spot. His 2024 KO win over Jared Anderson made fans notice him, but a quick knockout loss to Joseph Parker followed by a recent draw against Efe Ajagba, hurt his stock.

The results haven't been great, but being a presence in the heavyweight mix, something that wasn’t always available to him, has made Bakole grateful.

“I’m lucky people are calling my name now. Nobody was mentioning my name before.”