Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has thrown his weight behind Nigerian-born British boxer Moses Itauma ahead of his International Boxing Federation (IBF) World Heavyweight Championship clash with Croatian fighter Filip Hrgovic.

The highly anticipated bout is scheduled to take place at the O2 Arena in London on Saturday, August 29, 2026, with the vacant IBF heavyweight title at stake.

Pastor Umo Eno,in a statement, said Itauma’s victory would be a major milestone in his career and could see him become the youngest British world heavyweight champion, and congratulated him for representing what he described as the “Akwa Ibom spirit of excellence and competitive drive” on the global boxing stage.

The Governor urged the young boxer to seize the opportunity and make both Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria proud. “On behalf of the Government and people of State, I salute you for carrying the Akwa Ibom spirit of excellence and competitive drive into the world of boxing.”

He therefore described the fight as an “epochal moment” in Itauma’s career, stressing that the boxer would be carrying the hopes and aspirations of Akwa Ibom and Nigeria into the ring.

“As you step into the ring tomorrow, we want you to know that we are all rooting for you while commending achievements of Nigerians who have made their mark internationally in sports and entertainment, mentioning wrestler Obafemi “OBA” and music stars Burna Boy, Davido, Wizkid, Tems and Rema.

According to the Governor, Itauma now has an opportunity to add boxing to the growing list of fields where Nigerians are gaining global recognition, “urging him to go out there, Eyen Nyin, and show the world that you represent the emerging spirit and passion of the Akwa Ibom Exceptionalism in boxing.”

Eno further encouraged Itauma to deliver a performance capable of inspiring Nigerians across the country. “Akwa Ibom is arising with you, the nation too, is with you in this moment of national boxing renewal. Go and get it done.”

However, Itauma, 21, enters the contest unbeaten, having recorded 14 professional victories, including 12 knockouts.Neanwhile, Hrgovic boasts 20 wins and one defeat, with 15 of his victories coming by knockout.